Injection augmentation of arytenoids after partial laryngectomy: case series.

Area of Science:

• Laryngology and Voice Surgery
• Swallowing Disorders and Aspiration
• Head and Neck Reconstruction

Background:

• Partial laryngectomy can result in persistent dysphagia and aspiration due to impaired neoglottic function.
• Arytenoid augmentation is a potential strategy to improve glottic closure and airway protection post-laryngectomy.

Observation:

• Two patients with post-partial laryngectomy dysphagia and aspiration underwent collagen injection laryngoplasty for arytenoid augmentation.
• Pre- and post-procedure swallowing function was assessed using fiber-optic endoscopy and modified barium swallow studies.
• Collagen was injected into the arytenoid mucosa to enhance neoglottic competence.

Findings:

• Both patients demonstrated significant improvement in neoglottic competence.
• Fiber-optic and flexible endoscopy evaluations at three months and one year confirmed enhanced glottic closure.
• Clinical follow-up extended up to two years, indicating sustained benefits.

Implications:

• Arytenoid augmentation via collagen injection laryngoplasty is a safe and effective therapeutic option for managing dysphagia and aspiration post-partial laryngectomy.
• This minimally invasive approach can restore airway safety and improve swallowing function in select patient populations.
• Further research may explore long-term outcomes and broader applications of this technique.