Laryngeal Reinnervation for Vocal Fold Paralysis After Thyroid Surgery
Author Information
Author(s): Wang Wei, Chen Donghui, Li Shicai, Li Ding, Li Meng, Xia Siwen, Zheng Hongliang
Primary Institution: Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
Hypothesis
Delayed laryngeal reinnervation using the main branch of the ansa cervicalis is effective for treating unilateral vocal fold paralysis caused by thyroid surgery.
Conclusion
The study found that delayed laryngeal reinnervation can restore normal or nearly normal voice quality in patients with vocal fold paralysis after thyroid surgery.
Supporting Evidence
- Postoperative videostroboscopy showed significant improvements in vocal fold position and glottic closure.
- Vocal function assessments indicated marked improvements in voice quality post-surgery.
- Electromyography confirmed successful reinnervation of laryngeal muscles.
Takeaway
Doctors can help people who can't speak well after thyroid surgery by reconnecting a nerve in their throat, which can make their voice better.
Methodology
The study involved 237 patients who underwent nerve anastomosis and were assessed using videostroboscopy, vocal function tests, and electromyography over a mean follow-up of 5.2 years.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in patient selection and assessment methods due to the subjective nature of some evaluations.
Limitations
Some patients were lost to follow-up, and the study did not include a randomized control trial design.
Participant Demographics
The study included 59 males and 178 females, with a mean age of 45.2 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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