ABSTRACT
This chapter explains why and how people with a tracheostomy and/or head and neck cancer experience altered communication. Some,but not all,patients with head and neck cancer will require a tracheostomy but most tracheostomy procedures are performed for reasons unrelated to local carcinoma. Tracheostomy and laryngectomy are frequently confused as both have a visible neck stoma; the critical distinctions are outlined and related to their communication needs and the rehabilitation options. Cultural and psychosocial issues are discussed,and two case examples illustrate how this population may present in both an emergency and a community setting. We conclude with guidelines for optimising communication and minimising any negative impacts and list key resources for those who would like to learn more about issues concerning this population.
