Naomi Watanabe, RN, PhD, Yayoi Kamakura, RN, PhD, Junko Fukada, RN, PhD
Jpn J Compr Rehabil Sci 15: 17-26, 2024
Objectives: To study the esophageal speech training
system and needs for esophageal speech training in
one laryngectomy patient association in Japan.
Methods: The esophageal speech training system of
Association X for laryngectomy patients was observed
through participation. Needs for esophageal speech
training were analyzed qualitatively and inductively
by semi-structured interviews with 7 esophageal
speech (ES) trainers, 11 ES learners, and 8 family
members of the association conducted according to an
interview guide.
Results: Association X was organized, and its teaching
system was established, by the Japan Federation of
Laryngectomy Patient Associations (Nikkoren), and
12 ES trainers were appointed for esophageal speech
and electrolarynx speech training. The training was
based on the "Speech Practice Manual" published by
the association, but the teaching methods and training
contents and methods were left to the discretion of the
individual ES trainers. The survey by Association X
showed that there were needs for "Improvement of the
methods and contents of esophageal speech training"
and "Organizational reform of the association." The
former category included "Improvements for
evidence-based training that ensures vocalization" and
"Improving training methods and assigning roles for
advanced ES learners"; the latter category included
"Development of a system for trainers to continue
receiving training from better qualified trainers" and
"Reforming the association to allow learners and
families to voice their opinions about training." Each
category consisted of three subcategories.
Conclusions: In Association X, substitute vocalizations
were taught by 12 ES trainers. "Improvement of the
methods and contents of esophageal speech training"
and "Organizational reform of the association" were
expressed as needs for Association X concerning
esophageal speech training.
Key words: esophageal speech, esophageal speech training, laryngectomy patient association, patient organization