Long-term voice outcomes of laryngeal framework surgery for unilateral vocal fold paralysis

Author(s):
Mes, S.D.; Hendriksma, M.; Heijnen, B.J.; Goudsmit, B.J.; Jansen, J.C.; Langeveld, A.P.M.; Sjogren, E.V.
Published
2021
Publication type
Article / Letter to editor

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the short- and long-term voice outcomes after unilateral medialization thyroplasty (MT) and unilateral medialization thyroplasty with arytenoid adduction (MT + AA) in patients with unilateral vocal fold paralysis. Methods Voice outcomes were assessed preoperatively, and postoperatively at 3 and 12 months according to a standardized protocol. Voice assessment was performed using Voice Handicap Index (VHI), GRBAS Grade, Maximum Phonation Time (MPT), s/z-ratio and subjective numeric rating scales on voice quality, effort, performance and influence on life. Results Sixty-one patients were included (34 MT and 27 MT + AA). Significant pre- to postoperative improvements were seen in all voice outcome parameters. No significant differences in post-operative values were identified between the groups. Conclusion Based on our findings, we conclude that patients with unilateral vocal fold paralysis who undergo MT and MT + AA achieve comparable and significant long time voice improvement, although voices do not completely normalize. We also conclude that this does not mean that AA is a superfluous procedure, but can indicate the accurate identification of patients in need of the additional AA procedure based on clinical parameters.

Unilateral vocal fold paralysisMedialization thyroplastyArytenoid adductionVoice outcomeVoice Handicap Index
Date issued
2021-11-17
Language
English
Publisher
SPRINGER
Is part of
European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology
hdl
1887/3279815
doi
10.1007/s00405-021-07177-7