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Updated: Jun 1, 2026

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Manufacturing Process for Non-Adhesive Super-Soft Vocal Fold Models
Published on: January 5, 2024
Microstructure of the vocal fold in elderly humans
Summary
Aging vocal folds (VF) show structural changes impacting voice quality. Elderly VF tissue reveals mature deep collagen, scarce superficial elastic fibers, and abundant microvasculature, contributing to voice deterioration.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Gerontology
- Anatomy
Background:
- Voice changes are common after age 50.
- Vocal fold (VF) structural alterations can lead to voice deterioration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the structural changes in elderly vocal folds (VF) that may contribute to age-related voice decline.
Main Methods:
- Larynges from eight elderly cadavers (72-98 years) were analyzed.
- Vocal fold tissues were sectioned and stained for collagen, elastic fibers, and microvasculature.
- Histological analysis included H&E, Masson's Trichrome, Elastin van Gieson, Herovici, picrosirius, and CD31 markers.
Main Results:
- Collagen fibers matured from the superficial to the deep layers of the lamina propria (LP).
- A scarcity of elastic fibers was observed in the superficial LP of elderly VF.
- Abundant blood vessels and confirmed lymphatic vessels were present in the VF lamina propria.
Conclusions:
- Elderly vocal folds exhibit mature deep collagen and scarce superficial elastic fibers.
- The microvasculature and lymphatic presence in geriatric VF warrant further investigation regarding voice function.
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