Outcomes of Autologous Fat Injection Laryngoplasty in Unilateral Vocal Cord Paralysis

Abstract

Introduction: Unilateral vocal cord paralysis (UVCP) is not an uncommon finding. Several procedures are available to manage glottal insufficiency. We conducted a clinical trial to evaluate the outcome of fat injection laryngoplasty. Materials and Methods: Liposuctioned lower abdomen fat was injected for augmentation of paralyzed vocal cord in 20 patients with UVCP. Autologous fat was harvested with an 18G needle and a 20-ml disposable syringe using a liposuction technique. Clinical follow-up after the injection was carried out from 1 to 6–21 months Results: Voice and glottal protective function were significantly improved after the surgery. Vocal elements were immediately improved after the surgery, and after 1 year of follow-up. Conclusion: Fat injection laryngoplasty by liposuction is simple, safe, effective and has a low cost for patients with UVCP with aspiration and breathy voice dysphonia.

Keywords

• Autologous Fat
• Laryngoplasty
• Vocal cord paralysis