Abstract
Problem: A wide range of materials have been used to achieve the medialization of the paralyzed vocal fold. Recently, medialization techniques using autologous cartilage have been described, but little information is available on cartilage integration and viability in this situation. Methods: In this prospective, experimental, controlled study, right vocal fold paralysis was surgically induced in 30 New Zealand rabbits. An autologous auricular cartilage transplant was inserted in the vocal fold in 15 animals. In the control group only the laryngeal nerve was sectioned. Each group was divided into 2 groups with a follow-up of 6 weeks and 6 months, respectively. Results: Histology studies revealed no inflammatory reaction against cartilage transplants. There were no differences in the transplant surfaces in the 6-week and 6-month groups. Results show tissue integration, and a low level of initial transplant resorption that stabilizes with time. Conclusion: Autologous auricular cartilage appears to be an appropriate material for type I thyroplasty procedures because of the low absorption rate. Significance: This study demonstrates that the autologous cartilage is an appropriate material for the medialization of paralyzed vocal cords. Support: Support: Supported in part by a grant from the National Health Ministry of Spain.
Published Version
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