Thyroplasty in India: Vocal Cord Paralysis Treatment
Thyroplasty emerges as a crucial intervention for vocal cord paralysis, where an implant repositions the vocal cord to enhance voice clarity. Delving into the causes, symptoms, diagnostic procedures, and the diverse approaches of thyroplasty, this procedure serves as a last resort when conservative treatments fall short.

Causes of Vocal Cord Paralysis
Vocal cord paralysis arises from disrupted nerve impulses to the larynx, affecting vocal cord muscle movement. Beyond impairing speech, it compromises airway protection, hindering functions like swallowing and preventing aspiration of saliva.
Signs and Symptoms
- Air leakage during speech
- Hoarseness
- Noisy breathing
- Loss of vocal pitch
- Inability to speak loudly
- Loss of gag reflex
- Frequent inhalation while speaking
- Choking or coughing during swallowing
Diagnostic Procedures Prior to Thyroplasty
- Endoscopy: Utilizing a flexible endoscope, specialists examine vocal cords, often employing videostrobolaryngoscopy for a detailed view.
- Laryngeal Electromyography (LEMG): Measures electric currents in larynx muscles, aiding in assessing muscle function.
- Other Tests: Blood tests, X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs may be employed to identify the root cause of vocal cord paralysis.
Conducting Thyroplasty
Thyroplasty encompasses a series of surgeries tailored to the severity of vocal cord paralysis:
- Bulk Injection: Injectable substances like body fat or collagen are used to add mass, bringing the affected vocal cord closer to the center.
- Structural Implants (Thyroplasty): An implant repositions the vocal cord, addressing paralysis and occasionally requiring additional surgery for implant adjustment.
- Vocal Cord Repositioning: Tissue from the vocal cord window is moved externally, pushing the damaged vocal cord towards the center and facilitating vibration against the healthy cord.
- Nerve Supplementation (Reinnervation): Healthy nerve transfer may replace the damaged vocal cord, sometimes performed in conjunction with a bulk injection.
- Tracheotomy: In cases of bilateral vocal cord damage causing reduced airflow, a tracheotomy creates an opening in the windpipe, enabling breathing despite paralyzed vocal cords.
Conclusion
While regaining the original voice might be challenging, voice therapy offers compensatory techniques. Speech-language pathologists guide individuals in using their voice effectively without causing further harm to the vocal mechanism. Thyroplasty stands as a vital measure, ensuring optimal vocal function in cases where conventional treatments prove inadequate.
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