Is it Always Laryngopharyngeal Reflux? How Voice Disorders Can Manifest as LPR

Introduction: Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) manifests with a constellation of common throat symptoms and inconclusive signs on laryngoscopic exam. It is a diagnosis, often made clinically, that can lead to prescriptions of proton pump inhibitors that are unnecessary and potentially harmful. Glottic insufficiency (GI) and the accompanying hyperfunctional laryngeal behaviors can also present with similar, common throat complaints that may or may not include a qualitative change to the voice. Methods: This is a reflection article. It is written to summarize, explain, and support with evidence the opinion of the author on the topic of how symptoms of voice disorders can easily be mistaken for symptoms of LPR. The offered reflection is based on his experience, research and the available literature. Reflection: This article intends to explore the similarities between GI and LPR, how to ultimately differentiate them and how to approach treatment with a broader differential diagnosis. Conclusion: LPR and GI can present with identical, vague throat, and voice symptoms. Empiric medication trials, behavioral interventions and objective laryngovideostroboscopy, impedance-based reflux, and esophageal motility testing may all be needed, sometimes in a trial and error fashion, to correctly diagnose and treat a patient's symptoms.

Introducción: El reflujo laríngeo-faríngeo (LPR, por sus siglas en inglés) se manifiesta con una serie de síntomas comunes en la garganta y signos no concluyentes en el examen larinoscópico. Es un diagnóstico que a menudo se realiza clínicamente y que puede llevar a la prescripción de inhibidores de la bomba de protones que son innecesarios y potencialmente perjudiciales. La insuficiencia glótica (IG) y los comportamientos laríngeos hiperfuncionales que la acompañan también pueden presentar síntomas de garganta comunes similares, que pueden o no incluir un cambio cualitativo en la voz. Métodos: Este es un artículo de reflexión. Está escrito para resumir, explicar y respaldar con evidencia la opinión del autor sobre cómo los síntomas de los trastornos de la voz pueden confundirse fácilmente con los síntomas del LPR. La reflexión ofrecida se basa en su experiencia, investigación y la literatura disponible. Reflexión: Este artículo tiene la intención de explorar las similitudes entre la IG y el LPR, cómo diferenciarlos finalmente y cómo abordar el tratamiento con un diagnóstico diferencial más amplio. Conclusión: El LPR y la IG pueden presentar síntomas idénticos y vagos en la garganta y la voz. Puede ser necesario realizar ensayos de medicación empírica, intervenciones conductuales y pruebas objetivas de laringovideostroboscopia, reflujo basado en impedancia y motilidad esofágica, a veces de manera experimental, para diagnosticar y tratar correctamente los síntomas de un paciente.

A retrospective analysis of revision framework surgeries for unilateral vocal fold paralysis / Análise retrospectiva das cirurgias de revisão do arcabouço laríngeo para paralisia unilateral de prega vocal

Abstract Introduction Revision framework surgeries might be required for unilateral vocal fold paralyses. However, outcomes and indications of revision surgeries have not been adequately documented. For a better understanding of indications for the procedure and to help in achieving better vocal outcomes, we performed a retrospective chart review of patients who underwent revision framework surgeries for unilateral vocal fold paralysis. Objectives This study aimed to present clinical features of patients who underwent revision framework surgeries for the treatment of unilateral vocal fold paralysis. Methods Of the 149 framework surgeries performed between October 2004 and October 2019, 21 revision framework surgeries were performed in 19 patients. Self-assessments by patients using the voice handicap index-10 questionnaire, and objective aerodynamic and acoustic assessments performed pre- and post-operatively were analyzed using the Wilcoxon's signed-rank test for paired comparisons. Results Undercorrection was indicated as reasons for revision surgeries in all cases. The revision techniques included type I thyroplasty, type IV thyroplasty, and arytenoid adduction, and revision surgeries were completed without any severe complication in all cases. Pre- and post-operative voice handicap index-10 scores were obtained in 12 cases, and other parameters were evaluated in 18 cases. Significant improvements were observed in voice handicap index-10 scores, maximum phonation time, mean flow rate, Current/Direct Current ratio, and pitch perturbation quotient. Conclusion Undercorrection was observed in all patients who underwent revision framework surgeries for unilateral vocal fold paralysis, and the initial assessment and planning are thought to be important in order to avoid revision surgeries. Revision surgeries were performed safely in all cases, and significantly improved vocal outcomes were observed, even after multiple procedures. Revision surgery should be considered for patients with unsatisfactory vocal functions after primary framework surgeries for unilateral vocal fold paralysis.

Resumo Introdução As cirurgias de revisão do arcabouço laríngeo podem ser necessárias em casos de paralisia unilateral de prega vocal. Entretanto, os resultados e as indicações das cirurgias de revisão não têm sido documentados de forma adequada. Para melhor compreensão das indicações do procedimento e para auxiliar na obtenção de melhores resultados vocais, fizemos uma revisão retrospectiva dos prontuários de pacientes submetidos a cirurgias de revisão do arcabouço laríngeo em paralisia unilateral de prega vocal. Objetivos Apresentar as características clínicas de pacientes submetidos a cirurgias de revisão do arcabouço laríngeo para tratamento de paralisia unilateral de prega vocal. Método Das 149 cirurgias de revisão do arcabouço laríngeo feitas entre outubro de 2004 e outubro de 2019, 21 cirurgias de revisão do arcabouço laríngeo foram feitas em 19 pacientes. As autoavaliações feitas pelos pacientes com o questionário voice handicap index‐10 e avaliações aerodinâmicas e acústicas objetivas feitas no pré e pós‐operatório foram analisadas com o teste de postos sinalizados de Wilcoxon para comparações pareadas. Resultados A hipocorreção foi apontada como o motivo das cirurgias de revisão em todos os casos. As técnicas de revisão incluíram tireoplastia tipo I, tireoplastia tipo IV e adução de aritenoide. As cirurgias de revisão foram feitas sem qualquer complicação grave em todos os casos. Os escores do questionário voice handicap index‐10 pré e pós‐operatórios foram obtidos em 12 casos e outros parâmetros foram avaliados em 18 casos. Melhorias significativas foram observadas nos escores do questionário, no tempo máximo de fonação, taxa de fluxo médio, relação antes/depois e no quociente de perturbação do pitch. Conclusão Hipocorreção foi observada em todos os pacientes submetidos a cirurgias de revisão do arcabouço laríngeo para paralisia unilateral de prega vocal e a avaliação inicial e o planejamento são considerados importantes para evitar cirurgias de revisão. As cirurgias de revisão foram feitas com segurança em todos os casos e melhoria significativa dos resultados vocais foi observada mesmo após múltiplos procedimentos. A cirurgia de revisão deve ser considerada para pacientes com funções vocais insatisfatórias após cirurgia primária do arcabouço laríngeo para paralisia unilateral de prega vocal.

Efectividad de la terapia vocal versus tiroplastía en la voz de mujeres transgénero: una revisión integrativa / Effectiveness of vocal therapy versus thyroplasty in the voice of transgender women: an integrative review

Introducción. Las mujeres transgénero encuentran frecuentemente problemas en ajus-tar su voz a la frecuencia femenina. Para favorecer el cambio vocal deseado por estos in-dividuos, se ofrecen dos técnicas: una quirúrgica (tiroplastía) y otra clínica (terapia vocal). Objetivo. Esta revisión integrativa pretende verificar las publicaciones científicas relacionadas con las dos técnicas, observando cuál reporta mayor efectividad. Método. Se realizó una búsqueda en bases de datos, considerando las palabras clave: Transsexual Persons AND Voice Feminization AND Thyroplasty OR Voice Training. Resultados. Nueve artículos corresponden a estudios observacionales y tres utiliza-ron una metodología cuasi experimental. Los grupos estudiados incluyen un amplio espectro etario. Ninguno de los estudios informa aspectos económicos de las inter-venciones. No existe evidencia de seguimiento a largo plazo. Conclusiones. La vía de tratamiento vocal con adición hormonal puede ser una primera línea, y en caso de no reportar mejoras, la cirugía aparece como otra opción.Recomendación. La recomendación es que se realice terapia vocal, que no im-plica riesgos significativos de complicaciones, siendo además un abordaje relativa-mente económico.

Introduction. Transsexual women frequently encounter problems in adjusting their voices to the characteristics of their new gender. In order to help in the change to the desired voice, two techniques are often used: the surgical (Thyroplasty) and clinical (Speech Therapy). Objective. The aim of this integrative study is to verify through scientific publications the relationship between the two techniques and observe which is the most effective.Method. A systematic database search was conducted considering the keywords: Transsexual Persons AND Voice Feminization AND Thyroplasty OR Voice Training.Results. Nine articles corresponded to observational studies and three used a qua-si-experimental methodology. The groups studied include a broad age spectrum and the quality of the evidence is low. No study reports economic aspects of the interven-tions. There is no evidence of long-term follow-up. Conclusions. The vocal treatment route with hormonal addition can be a first line, and, in case of not reporting improvements, surgery appears as another option.Recommendation. The recommendation is for Speech Therapy, which has no significant risks of complications and is relatively cheap.

The Evaluation of the Short-Term Voice Outcome of Injection Laryngoplasty Using Two Types of Calcium Hydroxylapatite (Radiesse versus Facetem) / 대한이비인후과학회지

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Radiesse® is a widely used calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHA) injection material used for vocal fold injection. Recently, a new CaHA injection material (Facetem ®) which complements the structural disadvantages of Radiesse has been developed and released in the market. The aim of this study is to compare the efficacy and short-term voice outcome of these two CaHA materials. SUBJECTS AND METHOD: A retrospective analysis was performed for 70 patients with unilateral vocal fold paralysis who underwent vocal fold injection using CaHA materials. Acoustic voice analysis, maximal phonation time (MPT), voice handicap index (VHI), and Grade, Roughness, Breathiness, Asthenia, Strain (GRBAS) scale were evaluated between Radiesse and Facetem injection group. RESULTS: Both groups showed a signifcant improvement of MPT, VHI, and G, B, A scale after injection. The Facetem group showed similar voice improvement as the Radiesse group, where pre- and postoperatively objective and subjective voice evaluation results were compared. CONCLUSION: Our study reveals that there is no significant difference in efficacy and nor any short-term vocal improvement between Radiesse and Facetem. Therefore, the use of Facetem as CaHA injection material could be considered as an alternative material for patients with unilateral vocal cord paralysis.

Early Injection Laryngoplasty With a Long-Lasting Material in Patients With Potentially Recoverable Unilateral Vocal Fold Paralysis

OBJECTIVES: Injection laryngoplasty (IL) is one of the major options for treatment of unilateral vocal fold paralysis (UVFP). Early IL in patients with abrupt-onset UVFP can reduce hoarseness and aspiration-related discomfort and complications. Temporary or short-lasting materials are recommended for the early IL since permanent or long-lasting materials may negatively affect the voice quality when vocal fold motion is spontaneously recovered. METHODS: Patients who received IL with a long-lasting material (ArteSense) within 1 month following development of postoperative UVFP were enrolled for this study. They were categorized into a spontaneously recovered group (n=30) and unrecovered group (n=276) from UVFP. The subjective and objective voice parameters were collected before and 6 months after IL. Patients' demographics and collected voice parameters were compared between the two groups. RESULTS: Age and sex distributions were not different between the two groups. Aspiration symptom, maximum phonation time (MPT), jitter, shimmer, noise to harmonic ratio (NHR), overall grade (G) and breathiness (B) of GRBAS (grade of dysphonia, roughness, breathiness, asthenia, strain) scale score, and voice handicap index (VHI) were significantly improved after IL in both groups. The amounts of improvement in MPT, jitter, shimmer, NHR and VHI were significantly greater in the recovered group. There was no IL-related complication including granuloma formation, hypersensitivity to injection material, or worsening of hoarseness. CONCLUSION: Early IL with a long-lasting material can be safely performed to improve voice quality and to reduce aspiration episode for the patients with postoperative UVFP, regardless of recovery from the paralysis. The amounts of improvement in the subjective and objective voice parameters were significantly greater in patients who showed spontaneous recovery from UVFP when compared with those in patients who did not.

Sedation using dexmedetomidine and remifentanil with local anesthesia for intraoperative speech monitoring: a case report / Sedação com dexmedetomidina e remifentanil em anestesia local para monitoração intraoperatória da fala: um relato de caso

Abstract Background and objective Some surgical procedures such as laryngoplasty require patients to remain conscious during the intraoperative phase in order to enable speech monitoring. Dexmedetomidine and remifentanil were used in this study, since they promote appropriate patient collaboration with facilitated awakening, and are rapidly eliminated. Case report The patient complained of dysphonia, which had resulted from unilateral vocal fold paralysis after previous thyroidectomy. The surgical treatment was performed under local anesthesia in association with sedation using dexmedetomidine and remifentanil. The patient was stable and cooperative during the entire intraoperative period, without desaturation and with rapid postoperative awakening. Conclusion Dexmedetomidine and remifentanil can be used for safe sedation; however, the presence of an anesthesiologist is required during the entire intraoperative period.

Resumo Justificativa e objetivos Alguns procedimentos cirúrgicos requerem que o paciente se mantenha consciente no intraoperatório, como as laringoplastias, para que a monitoração da voz seja feita. Optamos pelo uso de dexmedetomidina e remifentanil por serem fármacos que proporcionam adequada colaboração do paciente com fácil despertar, são rapidamente eliminados do organismo. Relato de caso Paciente com queixa de disfonia por paralisia de corda vocal unilateral após realização de tireoidectomia. O procedimento foi realizado com anestesia local associada à sedação com dexmedetomidina e remifentanil. A paciente ficou estável e colaborativa durante toda a operação, sem períodos de dessaturação e com rápido despertar pós-operatório. Conclusão Dexmedetomidina e remifentanil podem ser utilizados para sedação com grande segurança, mas isso não dispensa a necessidade do cuidado por um anestesiologista em tempo integral durante o procedimento.

Hemitiroidectomía izquierda más tiroplastia con anestesia local. Reporte de un caso / Left hemithyroidectomy plus thyroplasty with local anesthesia. A case report

Resumen La asociación entre parálisis cordal y nódulo tiroideo es sugestiva de malignidad; por lo general, se trata de un carcinoma de la glándula tiroides con un tumor avanzado. Presentamos el caso de una paciente con carcinoma papilar de tiroides, parálisis cordal izquierda con aspiración bronquial y complicaciones pulmonares severas, a quien se le realizó hemitiroidectomía izquierda más tiroplastia con anestesia local y control endoscópico utilizando injerto de politetrafluoroetileno en forma artesanal. La evolución quirúrgica mostró buen resultado a corto plazo (13 meses), sin complicaciones relacionadas, fonación aceptable, con ganancia ponderal y sin nuevas complicaciones pulmonares. No existen hasta el momento de realizar este manuscrito reportes de cirugía de tiroides más tiroplastia con anestesia local. Se requiere una serie con mayor número de casos para llegar a conclusiones de validez.

Abstract The association between chordal paralysis and thyroid nodule is suggestive of malignancy, and it is usually a carcinoma of the thyroid gland with an advanced tumor. We present the case of a patient with papillary carcinoma of the thyroid, left cordal paralysis with bronchial aspiration and severe pulmonary complications who underwent left hemithyroidectomy plus thyroplasty with local anesthesia and endoscopic control using handcrafted polytetrafluoroethylene graft. The surgical evolution showed good short-term results (13 months) without related complications, acceptable phonation, with weight gain and without new pulmonary complications. There are no reports of thyroid surgery plus thyroplasty with local anesthesia at the time of this manuscript. A series with a greater number of cases is required in order to draw valid conclusions.

Effects of Injection Laryngoplasty with Hyaluronic Acid in Patients with Vocal Fold Paralysis

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of injection laryngoplasty (IL) with hyaluronic acid in patients with vocal fold paralysis (VFP). METHODS: A total of 50 patients with VFP participated in this study. Pre- and post-IL assessments were performed, which included analyzing the sustained vowel /a/ phonation, and the patient reading 1 Korean sentence from the “Walk” passage that comprised 25 syllables in 10 words. To investigate the effect of IL on vocal fold function, acoustic analysis (acoustic voice quality index, cepstral peak prominence, maximum phonation time, speaking fundamental frequency) was conducted and auditory-perceptual (grade and overall severity), visual judgment (gap), and self-questionnaire (voice handicap index-10) assessments were performed. RESULTS: The patients with VFP showed statistically significant differences between pre-and post-IL assessments for acoustic and auditory-perception, visual judgment, and self-questionnaire assessments. CONCLUSION: The patients with VFP showed positive change in vocal fold function between pre- and post-IL measurements. The findings showed that IL with hyaluronic acid is an effective method to improve vocal fold function in patients with VFP.

Efficacy of Calcium Hydroxyapatite in Vocal Fold Augmentation for Unilateral Vocal Fold Paralysis in Asian

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate efficacy and complication of injection laryngoplasty using calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHA) for unilateral vocal fold paralysis in Asian. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective study was conducted on the adult patients with unilateral vocal fold paralysis from May 2015 through January 2016. Injection laryngoplasty was performed by one laryngologist. All patients underwent prospective voice evaluation using the subjective and objective comprehensive battery of assessments, before the procedure and after the procedure at 3 months, and 6 months. RESULTS: A total of 7 patients (5 males and 2 females) were included in this study. VHI-10 was significantly decreased after injection laryngoplasty, at postoperative 6 months (p=0.031), while VAS score and MDADI showed no difference. GRBAS scale gradually decreased in 3 months and 6 months follow-up without statistical significance. Acoustic analysis revealed that jitter, shimmer, and noise-to-harmonic ratio continuously decreased from the baseline at 3 months and 6 months, although statistical significance was not attained. In the aerodynamic analysis, maximal phonation time was gradually increased at 3months and 6 months with significant difference (p=0.016, 0.031, respectively). There was no side effect associated with the procedure. CONCLUSION: CaHA can be safely used in Asian patients and the onset of maximal efficacy seems to be slow than other studies with Caucasian patients.

Benefits of Palliative Office-Based Hyaluronic Acid Injection Laryngoplasty in Cancer-Related Unilateral Vocal Cord Paralysis Patients

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The effect of palliative injection laryngoplasty in cancer-related unilateral vocal cord paralysis patients on voice and swallowing function is uncertain and there are few previous studies of its suitability, benefits as a palliative treatment option. The purpose of this study is to confirm the objective results of voice and swallowing function after palliative office-based hyaluronic acid injection laryngoplasty in cancer-related unilateral vocal cord paralysis patients. MATERIALS AND METHOD: 36 patients who had unilateral vocal cord paralysis from non-thyroidal, extralaryngeal neoplasms were included in this study. To evaluate the clinical outcome, we analyzed perceptual GRBAS grading, acoustic analysis, aerodynamic study, Electroglottography (EGG), Voice Handicap Index (VHI-30) about voice function and disability rating scale (DRS), gastric tube dependency, aspiration pneumonia about swallowing function and 36-Item Short Form Survey version 2 (SF-36v2) about quality of life. RESULTS: In GRBAS scale, G (p < 0.001), R (p=0.004), B (p=0.001), A (p=0.011), and S (p=0.007) showed significant improvement. Jitter, shimmer, speaking fundamental frequency, maximal phonation time, VHI-30, DRS score, gastric tube dependency, aspiration pneumonia, and SF-36v2 were significantly improved after injection (p=0.016, p=0.011, p=0.045, p=0.005, p < 0.001, p < 0.001 p=0.003, p < 0.001, and p < 0.001 respectively). CONCLUSION: From this study we concluded office-based hyaluronic acid injection can be used as a useful palliative treatment option in cancer-related ill patients with unilateral vocal cord paralysis. Palliative hyaluronic acid injection laryngoplasty avoids the need for tube feeding, thus reducing the risk of aspiration pneumonia. These outcomes are accompanied by significant improvement in voice quality.

Calcium Hydroxylapatite Pulmonary Embolism after Percutaneous Injection Laryngoplasty

Injection medialization laryngoplasty is a procedure that has many advantages in treating vocal fold paralysis; however, undesired complications can occur. We experienced a case of a pulmonary embolism, suspected in a patient who had undergone an injection laryngoplasty with calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA). The patient suffered dyspnea after undergoing the injection laryngoplasty. Chest embolism computed tomography (CT) scan revealed a new lesion of enhancing materials at the pulmonary vasculature in the right upper lobe. The CaHA embolism was suspected, and the patient was treated with warfarin for 12 months. The patient's symptom of dyspnea nearly disappeared and a follow up chest embolism CT scan revealed no signs of the previous lesion. Thus, we would like to report this rare case along with a review of the literature.

Comparison of Initial Therapeutic Effects of Voice Therapy and Injection Laryngoplasty for Unilateral Vocal Cord Paralysis Patients

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to classify patients with unilateral vocal fold paralysis according to their fixed location and to analysis the effects of two treatment methods by early voice therapy and injection laryngoplasty. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty patients who were classified as full abduction and slight abduction according to the position of paralysis were treated injection laryngoplasy, and 23 patients were treated by voice therapy. Twenty patients were treated injection laryngoplasy and 23 patients were treated voice therapy. Results were evaluated by acoustic analysis, electroglottography, cepstrum analysis before and after therapy. The voice therapy was conducted by improving the larynx movement and glottal contact, whilst removing hypertension of the supraglottic and use the breathing. RESULTS: Significant improvement was found in the acoustic parameter, cepstrum parameter, and EGG before and after treatment in both groups. There was no significant difference between the two groups when compared before and after treatment to compare the effects of injection laryngoplasty and voice therapy. CONCLUSION: The initial treatments for unilateral vocal cord paralysis are injection laryngoplasty and voice therapy. however, there is no precise standard about which method should be applied first. Therefore, in this study, we tried to classify patients according to their paralysis position and then apply two methods. The results of this study suggest that voice therapy and Injection laryngoplasty at the initial stage is a very useful method to improve voice quality of vocal fold paralysis and improve laryngeal function.

Comparison of Voice Outcomes between Medialization Thyroplasty and Arytenoid Adduction with or without Injection Laryngoplasty in Unilateral Vocal Fold Paralysis Patients

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: In unilateral vocal fold paralysis (VFP), medialization thyroplasty (MT), arytenoid adduction (AA) and injection layrngoplasty (IL) are the most common procedures to correct phonatory problems. There is no consensus that which procedure is superior to the other for correcting the glottal insufficiency. The purpose of this study was to compare the phonatory parameters between MT, AA and AA with IL (AA+IL) in patients with unilateral VFP. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective study enrolled patients from 2005 to 2016. Total 72 patients (49 male, 23 female, mean age 54.5 years) were classified into three groups ; MT (n=28), AA (n=12), and AA+IL (n=32). GRBAS scales, maximum phonation time (MPT), jitter, shimmer, noise to harmonic ratio (NHR), and voice handicap index (VHI)-10 and VHI-30 were preoperatively and postoperatively collected and compared between the three groups. RESULTS: Age, gender and cause of VFP were not significantly different between the three groups. In MT and AA groups, MPT, VHI, G (overall grade) and B (breathiness) were significantly improved. In AA+IL group, jitter, shimmer, NHR, MPT, VHI, G and B were significantly improved. In analysis of differences (pre-postoperative values), Δ jitter (p < 0.001), Δ shimmer (p=0.031), and Δ NHR (p=0.002) were significantly different and AA+IL group showed the greatest improvement. CONCLUSION: Analysis of voice parameters showed that all the three procedures for patients with unilateral VFP are effective in the improvement of voice ; especially in MPT, VHI-10, G and B scales. Compared to the others, AA+IL provided the better acoustic values including jitter, shimmer and NHR.

Progress of Surgical Treatment for Vocal Cord Movement Disorders / 中国微创外科杂志

[Summary] Vocal cord movement disorders may lead to hoarseness,dysphonia or even dyspnea.They reduce the quality of speech,destroy social communications,or even are life-threatening.For patients with vocal cord movement disorders which are not sensitive to the treatment of phonation training or medication,surgical procedures can improve the quality of phonation.At present, with operation methods for vocal fold movement disorders developing rapidly,types of the operations are exploring,while at the same time the situations of confusion or repetition of operation methods and terminologies increase.On this condition,we summarized different types of surgeries for vocal cord movement disorders by reviewing relevant literatures.

Injection Laryngoplasty for The Treatment of Vocal Fold Scar, and Sulcus

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The clinical reports for the treatment of vocal fold scar and sulcus vocalis are limited, also there is no best one for the treatment of them. This study is to evaluate the effect of Injection laryngoplasty (IL) for the treatment of vocal fold scar and sulcus vocalis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: from January 2013 to May 2015, the Nineteen patients who were diagnosed as vocal fold scar, sulcus and atrophy, and underwent IL, were engaged in this study. Clinical information and voice parameters were analyzed by retrospective chart review. Pre and post voice parameters were compared. RESULTS: Subgroups of diagnosis were classified into sulcus vocalis for 12 patients, vocal fold scar for 5, and atrophy for 2. IL was performed under local anesthesia through cricothyroid membrane except one patient. Atesense®, Radiessess®, and Rofilan® were used as injected materials in 9, 9, and 1 patients respectively. Maximal phonation time (p=0.0124), dynamic range (p=0.0028), pitch range (p=0.0141), voice handicap index (p=0.028), glottal closure (p=0.0229), and mucosal wave (p=0.0132) had significant improvement for post-IL voice assessment than Pre-IL. While GRBAS, Mean flow rate, Jitter, Shimmer, Harmony to Noise ratio didn't have improvement. CONCLUSION: IL is a feasible option for the treatment of glottis incompetence with normally mobile vocal folds such as sulcus vocalis and vocal fold scar.

Laringoplastía de inyección con ácido hialurónico, experiencia del Hospital Clínico de la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile / Laryngoplasty injection with hyaluronic acid, Hospital Clinico de la Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile experience

Introducción: El manejo inicial de la parálisis cordal unilateral incluye la observación en espera de la recuperación de la movilidad o la compensación, terapia fonoaudiológica o inyección de medialización temporal para llevar la cuerda a una posición más favorable para el cierre glótico. Este procedimiento puede realizarse en pabellón, o vía percutánea en paciente despierto. Existen varias opciones, siendo el ácido hialurónico (Restylane®) uno de los más usados. Objetivo: Revisar la experiencia pionera en el país en la inyección de medialización de cuerda vocal con ácido hialurónico en el manejo de la parálisis cordal unilateral. Material y método: Estudio retrospectivo, que incluyó a 15 pacientes con insuficiencia glótica a los que se les realizó una inyección percutánea con ácido hialurónico. Se evaluó la calidad de la voz pre y posprocedimiento (VRQOL), tolerancia al procedimiento y complicaciones. Resultados: El 100% de los pacientes mostró cambios significativos en el VRQOL, con un cambio promedio pre y post de 37%. El procedimiento fue bien tolerado en el 93%. No se produjeron incidentes durante la inyección ni tampoco posteriores. Conclusión: La inyección de medialización es un procedimiento bien tolerado, seguro y sencillo, que permite mejoras significativas en la calidad vocal. El ácido hialurónico es seguro y eficaz para la inyección de medialización.

Introduction: Initial treatment options for unilateral vocal fold paralysis include observation for spontaneous return of function or compensation, voice therapy to stimulate recovery of motion or function, or temporary vocal fold injection medialization to improve glottic closure. Temporary injection medialization can be performed under general anesthesia or in the awake-patient setting with local anesthesia. There are different options of temporary injection materials, being hyaluronic acid (Restylane®) one of the most popular. Aim: To review our pioneer experience in Chilewith the use of temporary vocal fold injection with hyaluronic acid in the initial management of unilateral vocal fold paralysis. Material and method: Retrospective study involving 15 patients with glottic insufficiency, who underwent percutaneous vocal fold injection medialization with hyaluronic acid. Pre and post procedure quality of voice (VRQOL), tolerance to the procedure, and complications were evaluated. Results: All patients showed significant changes in VRQOL, with a 37% average improvement. The procedure was well tolerated in 93%. No incidents occurred during injection orlater. Conclusions: The temporary vocal fold injection medialization is a well-tolerated, safe and simple procedure that allows significant short-term improvements in vocal quality of patients. Hyaluronic acid is a safe and effective material for temporary vocal foldinjection medialization.

Manejo de disfonía post cirugía tiroidea con laringoplastía por inyección con ácido hialurónico / Hyaluronic acid in the management of post-thyroidectomy vocal cord paralysis

Introduction: Thyroid surgery rates have tripled over the past 3 decades. Currently, the main postoperative complications of this surgery are vocal fold paralysis because of recurrent laryngeal nerve dysfunction and hypocalcemia. Case report: We report the case of a 58 years old woman who presented with persistent dysphonia post total thyroidectomy. Laryngeal videostroboscopy evidenced unilateral vocal fold paralysis. We performed a percutaneous injection laryngoplasty with hyaluronic acid achieving significant improvement in voice. Conclusions: Percutaneous injection laryngoplasty with hyaluronic acid is a safe and effective procedure in the management of post thyroidectomy vocal cord paralysis.

Introducción: La tasa de cirugía tiroidea se ha triplicado en las últimas 3 décadas. Dentro de sus complicaciones se encuentra la parálisis de cuerda vocal unilateral secundaria a lesión transitoria o permanente del nervio laríngeo recurrente, lo que se presenta clínicamente como disfonía. Caso clínico: Paciente de 58 años, post tiroidectomía total evoluciona con disfonía persistente. Videoestroboscopia evidencia parálisis cuerda vocal izquierda en posición paramediana, con hiato fonatorio longitudinal amplio. Se maneja con laringoplastía por inyección con ácido hialurónico a cuerda vocal paralítica, logrando mejora significativa de voz. En videoestroboscopia de control al 7º día se evidencia cuerda vocal izquierda en línea media, con borde libre recto, sin presencia de hiato al fonar. Conclusiones: La laringoplastía por inyección percutánea con ácido hialurónico es un procedimiento seguro y eficaz para el tratamiento de la disfonía secundaria a parálisis cordal unilateral post cirugía tiroidea.

Effect of sugarcane biopolymer in vocal fold of rabbits. Comparative study with calcium hydroxyapatite

PURPOSE: To compare the inflammatory reaction caused by the injection of a sugarcane biopolymer (SCB) into the vocal fold of rabbits with that caused by calcium hydroxyapatite (CaH). METHODS: CaH (Radiesse(r)) and SCB gel were injected respectively into the right and left vocal cords of thirty rabbits. The rabbits were distributed into two equal groups and sacrificed at three and twelve weeks after injection. We then evaluated the intensity of the inflammatory reaction, plus levels of neovascularization, fibrogenesis and inflammatory changes in the vocal mucosa. RESULTS: The vocal cords injected with CaH had a stronger inflammatory reaction by giant cells in both study periods. The SCB group had a more intense inflammatory involvement of polymorphonuclear cells three weeks after injection. SCB caused a higher level of neovascularization compared with CaH three weeks after the procedure. CONCLUSION: Whereas calcium hydroxyapatite triggers a more intense and lasting inflammatory reaction mediated by giant cells, sugarcane biopolymer causes a greater response from polymorphonuclear leukocytes, as well as higher levels of vneoascularization three weeks after injection. .

Balloon laryngoplasty for acquired subglottic stenosis in children: predictive factors for success / Laringoplastia com balão para estenose sub-glótica adquirida na infância: fatores preditivos de sucesso / Laringoplastia com balão para estenose sub-glótica adquirida na infância: fatores preditivos de sucesso

INTRODUCTION: The treatment of subglottic stenosis in children remains a challenge for the otorhinolaryngologist, and may involve both endoscopic and open surgery. OBJECTIVE: To report the experience of two tertiary facilities in the treatment of acquired subglottic stenosis in children with balloon laryngoplasty, and to identify predictive factors for success of the technique and its complications. METHODS: Descriptive, prospective study of children diagnosed with acquired subglottic stenosis and submitted to balloon laryngoplasty as primary treatment. RESULTS: Balloon laryngoplasty was performed in 37 children with an average age of 22.5 months; 24 presented chronic subglottic stenosis and 13 acute subglottic stenosis. Success rates were 100% for acute subglottic stenosis and 32% for chronic subglottic stenosis. Success was significantly associated with acute stenosis, initial grade of stenosis, children of a smaller age, and the absence of tracheostomy. Transitory dysphagia was the only complication observed in three children. CONCLUSION: Balloon laryngoplasty may be considered the first line of treatment for acquired subglottic stenosis. In acute cases, the success rate is 100%, and although the results are less promising in chronic cases, complications are not significant and the possibility of open surgery remains without prejudice. .

INTRODUÇÃO: O tratamento das estenoses subglóticas em crianças ainda representa um desafio para o otorrinolaringologista, e pode envolver tanto procedimentos endoscópicos quanto cirurgias reconstrutivas abertas. OBJETIVO: Apresentar a experiência de dois serviços terciários no manejo das estenoses subglóticas adquiridas em crianças, através da laringoplastia com balão e identificar fatores preditivos de sucesso e as complicações. MÉTODO: Estudo descritivo prospectivo de crianças com estenose subglótica adquirida submetidas à laringoplastia com balão como tratamento primário. RESULTADOS: Foram incluídas 37 crianças (média de idade 22,5 meses): 24 crianças portadoras de estenose subglótica crônica e 13 de estenose subglótica aguda. A taxa de sucesso do tratamento foi de 100% para os casos agudos e 32% para os casos crônicos. O sucesso do tratamento teve correlação significativa com: tempo de evolução da estenose, grau inicial da estenose, menor idade das crianças e a ausência de traqueostomia prévia. Disfagia transitória foi a única complicação observada em três pacientes. CONCLUSÃO: A laringoplastia com balão pode ser considerada como primeira linha de tratamento nas estenoses subglóticas. Nos casos agudos a taxa de sucesso é de 100% e o ganho, mesmo que parcial nos casos crônicos, é insento de complicações significativas e não traz prejuízo para cirurgias reconstrutivas posteriores. .

Balloon Laryngoplasty for Subglottic Stenosis Caused by Orotracheal Intubation at a Tertiary Care Pediatric Hospital

Introduction: In recent years, there has been a reduction in mortality rates in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) due to the impact of modern technological advances in the perinatal field. As a consequence, prolonged orotracheal intubation is used more frequently, and there has been an increase in acquired subglottic stenosis (SGS) in children. Subglottic stenosis is a narrowing of the endolarynx and one of the most common causes of stridor and respiratory distress in children. The laryngoplasty balloon has proven effective in dealing with stenosis both as primary and secondary treatments, after open surgery, with the added advantage of being less invasive and not requiring external access. Materials and Methods: This study involved children from pediatric intensive care units or NICUs suffering from respiratory distress and who presented an endoscopic diagnosis of Myer and Cotton grade I to III SGS. These patients underwent balloon laryngoplasty with different numbers of interventions depending on the response in each individual case. Results  All the patients responded satisfactorily to the balloon laryngoplasty. None required tracheostomy after treatment and all remained asymptomatic even after 6-month follow-up. One patient required just 1 dilation, 4 required 2, 3 underwent the procedure 3 times, and another had 5 dilations. Conclusion: The experience presented here is that of balloon laryngoplasty post–orotracheal intubation SGS with very satisfactory results at a tertiary care pediatric hospital. Although the number of patients is limited, our incidence corroborates other studies that demonstrate the efficacy and safety of balloon dilatation in the treatment of SGS...