Laryngeal Force Sensor for Suspension Microlaryngoscopy: A Prospective Controlled Trial

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Surgical Technology
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Suspension microlaryngoscopy is crucial for laryngeal procedures.
• Intraoperative forces can lead to postoperative complications.
• A laryngeal force sensor (LFS) was developed to monitor these forces.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if active use of the LFS can prevent complications during suspension microlaryngoscopy.
• To determine the relationship between intraoperative force metrics and postoperative outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A prospective controlled trial was conducted with 200 patients undergoing suspension microlaryngoscopy.
• Force data was collected using the LFS and custom software.
• Surgeons were blinded to LFS readings in the first 100 patients and actively used the system in the subsequent 100 patients.

Main Results:

• Active LFS monitoring was associated with lower total impulse and fewer extralaryngeal complications.
• Maximum intraoperative force was a significant predictor of postoperative complications.
• Active LFS monitoring decreased the likelihood of developing postoperative complications by 29.1%.

Conclusions:

• Elevated intraoperative force during microlaryngoscopy predicts postoperative complications.
• Active monitoring with the LFS effectively mitigates excessive forces.
• Implementing LFS monitoring can prevent the development of postoperative complications.