Long-term phonation status after recurrent laryngeal nerve reconstruction

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Vocal cord surgery
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• Long-term outcomes of recurrent laryngeal nerve reconstruction are not well-established.
• Previous studies focused on short-term phonatory function recovery.
• This study investigates vocal function over 10 years post-reconstruction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess long-term phonatory function after recurrent laryngeal nerve reconstruction.
• To evaluate changes in maximum phonation time and mean flow rate over a decade.
• To analyze patient-reported voice handicap over extended follow-up periods.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 212 patients undergoing recurrent laryngeal nerve reconstruction.
• Measurement of maximum phonation time and mean flow rate preoperatively and postoperatively.
• Administration of Voice Handicap Index-10 questionnaire at final visits, with follow-up divided into three periods: >6 months-2 years, >2-10 years, and >10 years.

Main Results:

• Patients with preoperative vocal cord paralysis showed significant improvements in phonation time and flow rate, which were maintained long-term.
• Patients without preoperative paralysis experienced voice recovery, but phonation time and flow rate did not reach preoperative levels.
• Voice Handicap Index-10 scores improved over time for most patients, indicating better vocal function and quality of life.

Conclusions:

• Recurrent laryngeal nerve reconstruction effectively restores phonatory function early after surgery.
• Modest, sustained improvements in vocal function persist for over 10 years post-reconstruction.
• The reconstructive surgery offers long-term benefits for patients with vocal cord paralysis.