Vocal Fold Fat injection for Glottic Insufficiency: Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Glottic insufficiency (GI) affects vocal fold function.
• Vocal fold fat injection offers advantages like pliability and stem cell potential.
• Long-term outcomes of fat injection for GI remain unpredictable.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review published literature on vocal fold fat injection for GI.
• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of fat injection laryngoplasty.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase.
• Inclusion criteria based on PICOTS and PRISMA statements.
• Outcomes included technique, duration, perceptual/acoustic analysis, and quality of life.

Main Results:

• 13 studies with 472 patients undergoing fat injection laryngoplasty for GI were reviewed.
• Significant improvements in maximum phonation time (MPT) and Voice Handicap Index (VHI) were observed at 1 year.
• Heterogeneity in techniques (harvest, processing, injection) and limited objective evaluations were noted.

Conclusions:

• Fat injection laryngoplasty appears safe and effective for GI for at least 12 months.
• Favorable outcomes are reported, but limitations include lack of control groups and nonstandardized methods.
• Further standardization and objective evaluations are necessary to fully assess long-term efficacy.