Longitudinal Voice Outcomes Following Laryngeal Reinnervation Via Vagus-to-Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Anastomosis After Vagal Nerve Sacrifice: A Case Series. (February 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ward, Greg M.; Sauder, Cara; Olson, Garth T.; Nuara, Michael J.
• Is Part Of: Annals of otology, rhinology & laryngology. Volume 124:Number 2(2015:Feb.)
• Page Start: 153
• Page End: 157
• Publication Date: 2015-02
• Subjects: nerve transfer (reinnervation) -- recurrent laryngeal nerve injury -- speech therapy -- vagus nerve injury -- vocal cord paralysis; Otolaryngology -- Periodicals; 617.51
• DOI: 10.1177/0003489414546397
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-4894

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to describe longitudinal voice outcomes of vagus-to-recurrent laryngeal nerve anastomosis following operative vagal nerve sacrifice. Methods: Two patients who underwent anastomosis were assessed by a multidisciplinary voice team at 1, 4, 9, 12, and 18 months after vagal sacrifice. Results: Long-term changes in voice function based on auditory perceptual measures of voice quality and visual perceptual changes in glottal closure were observed and maintained for 18 months after vagus-to-recurrent laryngeal nerve anastomosis in 2 patients with proximal vagal nerve sacrifice. Patients achieved acceptable voice outcomes and elected not to undergo further treatment, which was supported by Voice Handicap Index scores. Conclusion: Gradual restoration of voice following operative vagal sacrifice can be achieved over an 18-month period using vagus-to-recurrent laryngeal nerve anastomosis and warrants further investigation in appropriately selected patients.