Results of ansa to recurrent laryngeal nerve reinnervation

Abstract

Objective We sought to describe the results of ansa cervicalis to recurrent laryngeal nerve (ansa-RLN) reinnervation for unilateral vocal fold paralysis. Study Design A chart review was performed on patients undergoing ansa-RLN reinnervation for unilateral vocal cord paralysis at a tertiary care center. Patient perceptions of preoperative and postoperative voice quality was surveyed. Acoustic and visual parameters were assessed from videostroboscopy. Results From a total of 25 study patients, 15 patients underwent both preoperative and postoperativ video stroboscopies. In stroboscopies within 6 months, the average improvement in overall severity, roughness, and breathiness was 69, 79, and 100 percent, respectively. In stroboscopies after 6 months, the average improvement in overall severity, roughness, and breathiness was 63, 66, and 100 percent, respectively. Postoperatively, all patients had reinnervation of the vocal fold. Conclusions Voice outcomes were improved in patients with preoperative and postoperative stroboscopies. Significance Ansa-RLN reinnervation should be considered as a treatment for unilateral vocal fold paralysis.