Type 2 thyroplasty for spasmodic dysphonia: fixation using a titanium bridge.

OBJECTIVE: In order to facilitate surgery for spasmodic dysphonia, i.e. type 2 thyroplasty, a device was designed to fix the incised edges of the thyroid cartilage firmly. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Various types and sizes of titanium bridge were developed for clinical use. RESULTS: The results of surgery for spasmodic dysphonia were satisfactory in all 10 cases in which the new titanium bridge was used. No complications have been encountered to date. CONCLUSION: Type 2 thyroplasty for spasmodic dysphonia was made easier to perform using the new titanium bridge, and more stable fixation of the reconstructed thyroid cartilage was achieved.