Flexible endoscopic tracheo-oesophageal puncture under local anaesthetic

Blom-Singer valve prosthesis is an increasingly popular technique for voice rehabilitation in alaryngeal patients. Although primary voice puncture is being practised, the creation of the tracheo-oesophageal fistula is performed in the majority of patients as a secondary procedure. We describe a technique of secondary tracheo-oesophageal puncture using the flexible endoscope which can be performed under local anaesthetic and sedation. The technique overcomes the difficulty of passing a rigid oesophagoscope or forceps to the level of the tracheostome in a scarred and irradiated neck. The new technique also obviates the need for general anaesthesia. We have successfully used the technique in three patients.