Botulinum Toxin Injections to Cricothyroid Muscles for Relief of Bilateral Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Paralysis

Abstract

Objectives:Investigation of botulinum toxin use to relieve obstruction of the airway from bilateral abductor paralysis in humans.Study Design:Prospective preliminary clinical study. The study included a patient in which EMG demonstrated bilateral recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis and normal neuronal activity of both cricothyroid muscles.Materials and Methods:Injection of botulinum toxin to both cricothyroid muscles were performed under electromyograpic guidance by using a percutaneous approach. The angles of the cords using the anterior commissure as the center were measured in three positions; resting, maximum abduction, and adduction before and after injection using a goniometer confirmed with computer program.Conclusion:Botulinum toxin could relieve the devastating effects of bilateral recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis.Conclusion: Botulinum toxin could relieve the devastating effects of bilateral recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis.

Keywords

• botulinum toxin
• laryngeal emg
• bilateral abductor paralysis.