A simple operation for bilateral vocal cord paralysis

Abstract

To reduce the laryngeal obstruction in bilateral vocal cord paralysis, a new method of laterofixation was developed. The method is technically simple and less traumatic than previously published methods. No peroperative tracheostomy is needed. During surgery two needles are inserted through the thyroid cartilage. A nylon thread is passed through the needles and the needles are then withdrawn. The thread thus forms a permanent loop around the vocal cord. The effects of the laterofixation on breathing and on the voice are documented by assessment of upper airway resistance and by two listening panels respectively. Thirteen patients have been operated upon so far. In most cases the breathing was improved and the influence on the voice was moderate and adjustable. If needed the possibility to perform a more extensive surgical procedure still remains. We suggest our method of laterofixation to be the first treatment of choice in patients suffering from bilateral vocal cord paralysis.

Endo-extralaryngeal Laterofixation of the Vocal Folds in Patients with Bilateral Vocal Fold Immobility

“…Voice impairment also occurred in all patients of this study; however, postoperative voice function was acceptable in all patients. Aspiration is described after laterofixation in some studies (13)(14)(15) but not in others (16)(17)(18) and was not experienced in the patient cohort analyzed here.…”

Schematization of katilmis technique for Vocal cord lateralization: how we do it?

“…Kelly modified King's technique by excising the arytenoid through a window in the thyroid cartilage and by placing a suture to lateralize the vocal fold. [12] Ejnell et al [13] reported a new surgical technique for BVFI in 1984. Their method used laterofixation of the vocal fold, with a thread looped around the fold.…”

Combined Endoscopic and External Surgical Approach for Lateralization of Vocal Cord in Bilateral Abductor Palsy using Suture Technique: Our Experience

“…Only the patients with severe bilateral vocal cord immobility require surgical intervention. 4 The treatment of bilateral immobile vocal cords is a balance between phonation, airway, and swallowing. A wide range of techniques are nowadays used to enable the patient both to speak and to breathe without the need of permanent tracheostomy.…”