Single Platelet Rich Plasma Glottic Injections in Vocal Pathology Demonstrate Long Term Benefits

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are increasingly used for vocal fold (VF) pathologies.
• The impact of multiple PRP injections on voice outcomes requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of the number of PRP injections on voice outcomes in patients with benign VF pathologies.
• To compare voice outcomes between single and multiple PRP injection groups.

Main Methods:

• Prospective follow-up of patients receiving 1-7 PRP VF injections.
• Assessment at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months using voice examinations, perceptual ratings, videostroboscopy, and questionnaires (VHI-10, VFI).
• Comparison of outcomes for single versus multiple PRP injection cohorts.

Main Results:

• Eighty-three patients received 123 PRP injections; 65% had single injections.
• No statistically significant difference in Voice Handicap Index-10 (VHI-10) improvement between single and multiple injection groups at 3, 6, or 12 months.
• Patients with VF scar or prior procedures were more likely to need multiple injections.

Conclusions:

• A single PRP injection can significantly improve vocal parameters in benign VF pathology for up to 12 months.
• Consider additional PRP injections based on individual patient response and desired outcomes.
• The number of injections did not significantly alter overall voice outcome improvements.