Transvestibular Chondrolarynoplasty-Experimental Study in Cadavers.

Area of Science:

• Surgical Innovation
• Plastic Surgery
• Gender Affirming Care

Background:

• Thyroid cartilage prominence is a male secondary sex characteristic often undesired by transgender women.
• Traditional open chondrolaryngoplasty results in visible neck scars, impacting patient satisfaction.
• The transoral endoscopic vestibular approach (TOEVA) offers a scarless alternative for thyroid cartilage reduction.

Observation:

• Cadaveric dissections explored the feasibility of TOEVA for chondrolaryngoplasty.
• The technique involved endoscopic visualization and resection of the thyroid cartilage through oral vestibule incisions.
• Laparoscopic instruments and a specialized endoscopic rasp were used for cartilage contouring.

Findings:

• Transoral chondrolaryngoplasty is a viable technique for reducing thyroid cartilage prominence without external scarring.
• Successful visualization and instrument manipulation were achieved in most cadaveric cases.
• Minor complications included skin perforations and instrument issues with calcified cartilage.

Implications:

• TOEVA presents a promising scarless surgical option for facial feminization surgery.
• Further clinical investigation is warranted to validate the safety and efficacy of this approach.
• This technique has the potential to significantly enhance patient satisfaction by eliminating visible scarring.