Long‐Term Outcomes and Revision Rates in Laryngeal Reinnervation

Abstract

ObjectivesNonselective laryngeal reinnervation is an effective procedure to improve voice quality after unilateral vocal fold paralysis. Few studies have captured long‐term outcome data, and the revision rate for this operation is currently unknown. The objective of this study is to describe the long‐term outcomes and revision rates of unilateral, nonselective reinnervation in pediatric and adult patients.MethodsPatients who underwent laryngeal reinnervation from 2000 to 2022 with a single surgeon were identified for inclusion. Patients who underwent bilateral, super selective, deinnervation and reinnervation, and/or concurrent arytenoid adduction procedures were excluded. Outcome measures included maximum phonation time [MPT], voice handicap index score [VHI], patient‐reported percent normal voice, revision procedures, and complications. Data were compiled and analyzed using paired t‐tests, repeated measures analysis of covariance, and binary logistic regression analysis.ResultsOne hundred thirty‐two patients underwent unilateral, nonselective ansa‐recurrent laryngeal nerve [RLN] laryngeal reinnervation. Reinnervation significantly improved MPT and patient‐reported percentage of normal voice and significantly decreased VHI. Eleven patients underwent revision procedures, corresponding to a revision rate of 8.3%. Additional procedures included medialization laryngoplasty [n = 3], medialization laryngoplasty with arytenoid adduction [n = 3] and injection augmentation greater than 1 year after reinnervation [n = 5]. The only factor associated with the need for additional surgery was time lapse from nerve injury to reinnervation. The overall complication rate was 6.8%; no patient required reintubation or tracheostomy.ConclusionUnilateral, nonselective laryngeal reinnervation can provide reliable improvement in vocal symptoms after recurrent laryngeal nerve injury. The revision rate after laryngeal reinnervation is favorable and comparable to framework surgery.Level of Evidence4 Laryngoscope, 134:3187–3192, 2024