Injectable collagen in laryngeal rehabilitation

Glottic insufficiency has been successfully managed by Teflon augmentation of paretic vocal cords over the past two decades. Collagen fulfills the criteria for a suitable bioimplant and is an attractive alternative as it is a normal constituent of the extracellular protein matrix. This study explores the use of modified bovine collagen injected into the canine larynx. Clinical situations are simulated by creating lesions and injecting collagen at different sites. The technique permits precise placement and quantification. Histologic study of the collagen implant fails to show evidence of significant foreign body reaction. The injected collagen appears similar to viable connective tissue and is colonized by host fibroblasts and nourishing capillaries.