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. 2014 Jun 1;2(2):119-130.
doi: 10.1007/s40136-014-0044-y.

Framework Surgery for Treatment of Unilateral Vocal Fold Paralysis

James J Daniero  1 , C Gaelyn Garrett  1 , David O Francis  2
Affiliations

Framework Surgery for Treatment of Unilateral Vocal Fold Paralysis

James J Daniero et al. Curr Otorhinolaryngol Rep. .

Abstract

Laryngeal framework surgery is the current gold standard treatment for unilateral vocal fold paralysis. It provides a permanent solution to glottic insufficiency caused by injury to the recurrent laryngeal nerve. Various modifications to the original Isshiki type I laryngoplasty procedure have been described to improve voice and swallowing outcomes. The success of this procedure is highly dependent on the experience of the surgeon as it epitomizes the intersection of art and science in the field. The following article reviews the evidence, controversies, and complications related to laryngoplasty for unilateral vocal fold paralysis. It also provides a detailed analysis of how and when arytenoid-positioning procedures should be considered, and summarizes the literature on postoperative outcomes.

Keywords: Unilateral vocal fold paralysis; arytenoid adduction; glottic insufficiency; laryngeal framework surgery; laryngoplasty; thyroplasty; type I laryngoplasty; unilateral vocal cord paralysis; vocal cord medicalization; vocal fold medicalization.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of Interest

James J. Daniero has no conflicts of interest.

C. Gaelyn Garrett has no conflicts of interest.

David O. Francis has no conflicts of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Proportions of outcomes measures in studies of arytenoid repositioning procedures.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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