The study of vocal fold vibratory patterns in patients with unilateral vocal fold paralysis before and after type I thyroplasty with or without arytenoid adduction

Abstract

Type I thyroplasty and arytenoid adduction have been used for the treatment of symptomatic unilateral vocal fold paralysis since the mid-1970s. To this date, the vibratory patterns of the vocal folds in patients with unilateral vocal fold paralysis undergoing thyroplasty have not been studied in depth. Abnormal vibration of the vocal fold mucosa often contributes to voice problems in persons diagnosed with vocal diseases or disorders. The preoperative and postoperative videostroboscopic vibratory patterns including mucosal wave, amplitude, glottic closure, and symmetry were studied in 12 patients who underwent unilateral type I thyroplasty separately or in combination with an arytenoid adduction. The observed changes and clinical implications are discussed.