Phonatory outcome of autologous fat injection in unilateral vocal cord palsy

Abstract

Objective: Evaluate the outcome of autologous fat injection (AFI) in the management of unilateral vocal cord palsy (UVCP). Materials and Methods: In this retrospective study, we obtained data of all patients with UVCP of at least 6 months duration who underwent AFI. Preoperative and postoperative grade, roughness, breathiness, asthenia, and strain (GRBAS), voice handicap index (VHI), and multidimensional voice program scores were obtained and compared to evaluate the subjective and objective outcomes of AFI. Results: Sixty patients underwent AFI. There was significant improvement in perceptual voice, as graded by both – patient and observer, using VHI and GRBAS scale. Significant improvement was also seen in Jitter and Soft Phonation Index on voice analysis. Conclusion: AFI is a simple, safe, and cost-effective method with excellent phonatory outcomes for the management of UVCP.