Z90.02 Acquired absence of larynx

Name of the Condition

• Acquired absence of larynx

Summary

The acquired absence of the larynx is a condition where the larynx, also known as the voice box, is missing due to surgical removal or traumatic injury. This condition may result in changes to speech and breathing functions.

Causes

• The primary cause is a surgical procedure known as laryngectomy, often performed to treat laryngeal cancer or other serious conditions affecting the larynx.
• Severe trauma to the neck area can also lead to the removal of the larynx.

Risk Factors

• Having laryngeal cancer or other cancers of the throat that necessitate larynx removal.
• Previous radiation therapy or chemotherapy for head and neck cancers.
• Severe traumatic injuries to the head and neck region.

Symptoms

• Loss of natural voice
• Breathing difficulties through the nasal airways
• Difficulty swallowing

Diagnosis

• Examination of medical history and current symptoms.
• Imaging tests prior to larynx removal surgery to assess the extent of disease.
• Post-operative physical examination to check surgical outcomes and recovery.

Treatment Options

• Speech therapy to learn alternative communication methods, such as esophageal speech or using an electrolarynx.
• Stoma care and management for breathing through a tracheostoma.
• Psychological support and counseling to adjust to lifestyle changes.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Prognosis largely depends on the underlying reason for the larynx removal.
• Regular follow-up appointments to monitor recovery and check stoma or surgical site.
• Continuous speech therapy may be necessary to maximize communication abilities.

Complications

• Potential complications include stoma infections, respiratory difficulties, and challenges with swallowing.
• Emotional or psychological impact due to changes in voice and appearance.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Use of medical alert identification indicating the presence of a stoma.
• Avoidance of smoking and alcohol to reduce the risk of head and neck cancers.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Sudden changes in breathing or difficult breathing through the stoma.
• Signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or discharge from the stoma.
• Difficulties in managing day-to-day activities or stress from lifestyle changes.

Additional Resources

• American Cancer Society: https://www.cancer.org/
• Laryngectomy Support Groups: Various online forums and community groups are available for support.

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the code Z90.02 is used specifically for cases involving acquired absence of the larynx.
• Verify and differentiate from congenital absence of the larynx to avoid coding errors.
• Check for additional codes if the condition resulted from cancer treatment or trauma.