In honor of the 50th anniversary of the Laryngectomee Club in Zagreb, a team from the University Clinical Center Tuzla, including doctors, speech therapists, and nurses from the Clinic for Ear, Nose, Throat, and Head and Neck Surgery, along with members of the Association of Tracheotomized Persons Tuzla, had the privilege of attending the 32nd International Symposium of Laryngectomees in Zagreb.
This gathering served as a valuable platform for professional exchange, fostering discussions on various aspects of laryngectomee treatment and rehabilitation. Among the many compelling topics, the issue of laryngeal transplantation drew particular interest, highlighting new possibilities for voice restoration in individuals who have lost their vocal function due to malignant diseases.
A highly significant topic at the symposium was “Are Laryngectomees Stigmatized?”, presented by esteemed speech therapist Tamara Živković Ivanović PhD.
Her presentation sparked meaningful dialogue on the social challenges faced by individuals who have undergone laryngectomy, shedding light on the importance of awareness and support in their reintegration into daily life.
The Association of Tracheotomized Persons Tuzla, led by its president, Dr. Lejla Tokić, an otolaryngology specialist at the Clinic for Ear, Nose, Throat, and Head and Neck Surgery, University Clinical Center Tuzla, was recognized and praised by the organizers of the 32nd International Symposium of Laryngectomees in Zagreb for its continuous efforts in supporting and rehabilitating laryngectomees. Through counseling, education, and psychological assistance, the association plays a vital role in improving the quality of life for individuals who have undergone laryngectomy.
“Participating in this event was an invaluable opportunity to establish important connections and exchange experiences in the field of laryngectomee care,” said Dr. Tokić. “At the Clinic for Ear, Nose, Throat, and Head and Neck Surgery, and through the Association of Tracheotomized Persons Tuzla, we are committed to providing high-quality medical care, alongside extensive counseling and education programs for laryngectomees. This symposium has allowed us to strengthen collaboration with experts and organizations facing similar challenges, ultimately enhancing the services we provide.”
The Director of the university Clinical Center Tuzla, Prof. Dr. Šekib Umihanić, emphasized the significance of attending the 32nd International Symposium of Laryngectomees in Zagreb for the University Clinical Center Tuzla team.
“Participating in international events like this allows us to exchange the latest knowledge and strengthen international cooperation in the treatment and rehabilitation of laryngectomees. Such gatherings are essential for advancing our medical approaches and promoting social inclusion,” stated Prof. Dr. Umihanić. “As Director, I can confidently say that we remain committed to actively participating in and organizing similar events to ensure the highest quality care for our patients.”
