Injection laryngoplasty using hyaluronic acid for Chinese patients with unilateral vocal fold paralysis

Abstract

Objectives: Injection laryngoplasty using hyaluronic acid for patients of unilateral vocal fold paralysis (UVFP) is becoming more common in Hong Kong. The present investigation attempted to explore the efficacy of the procedure by studying videostroboscopic information, patients' quality of life (QOL), and vocal characteristics obtained before and after injection laryngoplasty.Method: Visual, perceptual, and acoustic data were collected from 11 UVFP patients during their visits before, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months after injection laryngoplasty. During each visit, the UVFP patients underwent videostroboscopic examination. They were also instructed to maximally sustain the vowels /i, a, u/ and to read aloud a short passage. Fundamental frequency values, perceptual voice quality ratings, and voice handicap index (VHI-30) scores were obtained. Data obtained before and after the surgery were compared.Results: Videostroboscopic examination showed a significant improvement in glottal closure over time. VHI-30 indicated that the voice-related QOL was improved. GRBAS scores also showed significant improvement in perceived vocal quality. However, no significant difference was found in fundamental frequency before and after the procedure.Conclusion: Injection laryngoplasty is effective in helping UVFP patients achieve better voice quality and improved QOL. The procedure also appears to show immediate and sustainable effect to up to 3 months post-surgery.