Vocal fold augmentation with autologous fat for glottic insufficiency

Introduction In this multimedia article we would like to demonstrate vocal fold augmentation with autologous fat as a therapy for glottal insufficiency. The patient population includes patients with symptomatic glottal insufficiency due to atrophy, unilateral paralysis or structural changes of the vocal fold after laser chordectomy. Pre- and postoperative videostroboscopy and the perioperative procedure with liposuction and microlaryngoscopic augmentation are shown. Functional results were evaluated using voice samples as well as VHI-30 and RBH values.

Methods The operation is preferably performed in JET ventilation. Liposuction is performed via an infraumbilical skin incision using a liposuction cannula. The aspirated fat is centrifuged and then injected into the affected vocal cord via an injection needle. The magnification/visualization medium is our surgical microscope (Zeiss) or the VITOM®-3D system from Storz, through which the glottis is visualized three-dimensionally.

Results An improvement of the glottis closure, the subjective voice perception (VHI) and further voice parameters could be achieved in all patients. Elements of pre- and posttherapeutic voice diagnostics are demonstrated in the multimedia contribution.

Discussion In addition to the presentation of the surgical procedure and the functional results, the advantages and disadvantages of the respective visualization procedure will be illustrated in the spirit of the congress motto "Which quality makes the difference".

Poster-PDF A-1393.PDF

Publication History

Article published online:
10 June 2020