laryngectomy, partial

laryngectomy, partial A laryngectomy that preserves the voice. The surgeon removes only part of the larynx (voice box)—just one vocal cord, just part of a vocal cord, or just the epiglottis—and the opening in the front of the neck (stoma) is temporary. After a brief recovery period, the tracheostomy tube is removed, and the stoma closes up. The patient can then breathe and talk in the usual way. In some cases, however, the voice may be hoarse or weak.