Candida vegetations on silicone voice prostheses.

Deposits found on the esophageal surface of silicone voice prostheses (used in postlaryngectomy voice rehabilitation) are held responsible for malfunction of the valve mechanism. Cultures and scanning electron microscopic examinations proved these deposits to consist of Candida organisms growing not only on the surface of the prosthesis but also into the silicone material itself. It is remarkable that the patients are apparently not affected by these Candida organisms. Selective decontamination of the oropharynx and coating of the prosthesis with poly-methyl methacrylates, or impregnation with antimycotic agents or disinfectants, may prove effective methods in prolonging the life of the device.