Regenerative Strategies for Vocal Fold Repair Using Injectable Materials.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Vocal fold disorders require injectable biomaterials for mechanical support and tissue regeneration.
• Current injectable materials aim to mimic native tissue viscoelasticity, degradation, and immune response.
• Limitations of conventional augmentation necessitate advanced biomaterials that provide biochemical cues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in injectable biomaterials for vocal fold disorders.
• To highlight materials designed for mechanical reinforcement and regenerative microenvironments.
• To discuss the potential of these materials in restoring phonation and tissue regeneration.

Main Methods:

• Review of experimental and early clinical studies on injectable biomaterials.
• Focus on hyaluronic acid derivatives, calcium hydroxylapatite, and decellularized matrix scaffolds.
• Analysis of growth factor delivery, stem cell injections, and ECM-mimetic hydrogels.

Main Results:

• Injectable biomaterials demonstrate improved mucosal wave vibration and reduced fibrosis.
• Hyaluronic acid-based hydrogels and other advanced materials provide ECM-like signals.
• Growth factor delivery showed persistent benefits up to 12 months in clinical studies.

Conclusions:

• Injectable biomaterials offer a promising approach for vocal fold disorder treatment.
• These materials can provide mechanical support and promote tissue regeneration.
• Further research correlating material properties with vibratory performance is needed for lasting phonation restoration.