After being diagnosed with a rare form of cancer in his larynx, Marty Kean lost the ability to speak, breathe, and swallow on his own. Despite doctors recommending the removal of his voice box, he refused and in February received a total larynx transplant, becoming the third person in the US to undergo this surgery. Kean’s successful outcome has opened up possibilities for more patients with damaged or surgically removed larynx to consider this life-changing transplant option, providing hope for those who have lost their voices due to cancer or other reasons.
After facing a rare form of cancer that left him unable to speak, breathe, or swallow on his own, Marty Kean has received a groundbreaking total larynx transplant. Kean, who was diagnosed with laryngeal cancer 11 years ago, refused the option of complete removal of his voice box, opting instead for the innovative surgery. Becoming the third person in the United States to undergo this procedure, Kean is part of a small clinical trial aiming to expand the availability of larynx transplants to more individuals in need.
Larynx transplants are not typically offered to patients with active cancer due to the associated risks, but Kean’s unique circumstances allowed him to receive this life-changing surgery. With the success of his transplant, doctors are hopeful that more patients with damaged or surgically removed larynxes will have access to this procedure in the future. Less than five months post-surgery, Kean’s voice has regained strength, he can swallow food normally, and he is working towards breathing independently once again, marking a significant improvement in his quality of life and a promising advancement in the field of medicine.
The first two recipients of larynx transplants in the US lost their voices due to injuries, while cancer remains a leading cause for many individuals facing laryngeal issues. With over 12,000 people diagnosed with laryngeal cancer annually in the US, the potential for larynx transplants to provide a new lease on life for those impacted by the disease is substantial. As Kean looks forward to reconnecting with his loved ones and speaking to his granddaughter, his story serves as a beacon of hope for those seeking to regain their voices through innovative medical interventions.
