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Unilateral vocal fold paralysis: causes, options and outcomes
T Havas1, D Lowinger, J Priestley
1The Sydney Voice Clinic, Australia. thavas@ozemail.com.au
The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Surgery
|August 12, 1999
Summary
Vocal fold paralysis management improved voice outcomes in 92/108 patients. Early intervention and vocal fold augmentation with autologous fat were particularly effective for sustained voice improvement.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Speech and Language Pathology
Background:
- Presents current aetiology and management of vocal fold paralysis.
- Reviews 108 patients with unilateral vocal fold paralysis managed between 1989-1996.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of various management strategies for vocal fold paralysis.
- To identify successful interventions for voice restoration.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 108 patients with unilateral vocal fold paralysis.
- Classification of aetiology: iatrogenic (45%), idiopathic (33%), other (25%).
- Management options included observation, speech therapy, surgery (augmentation, thyroplasty, re-innervation), and adjuvant speech therapy.
Main Results:
- Restoration of near normal to normal voice in 78/108 patients.
- An additional 14 patients achieved a very good voice or better.
- Vocal fold augmentation with autologous fat demonstrated sustained improvement.
Conclusions:
- Early intervention for symptomatic vocal fold paralysis is safe and effective.
- Vocal fold augmentation, particularly with autologous fat, is a successful method for sustained voice improvement.