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Laryngeal nerve function after total laryngeal transplantation
Robert R Lorenz1, Douglas M Hicks, Robert W Shields
1Department of Otolaryngology and Communication Disorders, The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Ohio 44195, USA.
Summary
The first human composite laryngeal transplant restored voice in an aphonic patient. Four years post-surgery, electromyography confirmed laryngeal muscle reinnervation and phonatory function.
Area of Science:
- * Otolaryngology and Regenerative Medicine
- * Surgical Innovation in Voice Restoration
Background:
- * A 40-year-old male patient experienced aphonia due to a severe laryngeal crush injury 20 years prior.
- * Previous reconstructive surgeries were unsuccessful, necessitating advanced therapeutic approaches.
Observation:
- * The first composite human laryngeal transplantation was successfully performed on January 4, 1998.
- * Postoperative evaluations included serial fiberoptic examinations and voice testing to assess laryngeal reinnervation.
- * Electromyographic recordings of laryngeal musculature were conducted 4 years after transplantation.
Findings:
- * The study reports on the phonatory function and laryngeal reinnervation following the first composite human laryngeal transplant.
- * Long-term (4-year) electromyographic data demonstrated successful reinnervation of the laryngeal musculature.
- * The patient regained phonatory function, indicating the viability of the transplanted larynx.
Implications:
- * This pioneering procedure demonstrates the potential for composite laryngeal transplantation in treating severe laryngeal injuries.
- * The findings support laryngeal transplantation as a viable option for voice restoration in complex cases.
- * Further research into surgical techniques and long-term outcomes is warranted to advance the field.