Neural-based prosthesis for enhanced voice intelligibility in laryngectomees

Nearly two million non-speaking people today rely on speech output devices to communicate needs and desires. Patients who have undergone laryngectomy have to use one of three speech rehabilitation systems: artificial larynx, esophageal voice, and tracheoesophageal voice. There are major shortcomings associated with these options, including difficulty with use, complications, low speech intelligibility, etc. The paper presents results of a study in feasibility of developing a prosthesis that will enhance speech quality and intelligibility through integration of advances from smart materials, thin film electromechanical systems, and neural-based data processing. Laboratory experiments and resulting speech enhancements are presented and discussed.