Stimulation of denervated muscle promotes selective reinnervation, prevents synkinesis, and restores function.

Objectives/hypothesis: Previously, electrical stimulation of denervated canine laryngeal muscle was shown to promote reinnervation by native over foreign motoneurons. The goal of this study was to assess the effect of different stimulus paradigms on reinnervation quality and functional recovery.

Study Design: A prospective study of six canines over 8 to 20 months.

Comparison of ventilation and voice outcomes between unilateral laryngeal pacing and unilateral cordotomy for the treatment of bilateral vocal fold paralysis.

Background/aims: Rehabilitation of the bilaterally paralyzed human larynx remains a complex clinical problem. Conventional treatment generally involves surgical enlargement of the compromised airway, but often with resultant dysphonia and risk of aspiration. In this retrospective study, we compared one such treatment, posterior cordotomy, with unilateral laryngeal pacing: reanimation of vocal fold opening by functional electrical stimulation of the posterior cricoarytenoid muscle.

Bilateral motion restored to the paralyzed canine larynx with implantable stimulator.

Objectives/hypothesis: Bilateral stimulation of posterior cricoarytenoid (PCA) muscles offers a physiologic approach to restore ventilation to a normal level in case of bilateral laryngeal paralysis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of a new generation stimulator in restoring ventilation and exercise tolerance.

Study Design: A prospective study of four canines over 8-20 months.

Botulinum toxin injections for new onset bilateral vocal fold motion impairment in adults.

Objectives/hypothesis: Review of clinical experience and results using botulinum toxin type A (BTX) for the management of adult patients with respiratory compromise due to new onset bilateral vocal fold motion impairment (BVFMI).

Study Design: Retrospective case series.

Methods: The records of 11 patients from two institutions with respiratory compromise due to bilateral vocal fold motion impairment were reviewed.

Rehabilitation of bilaterally paralyzed canine larynx with implantable stimulator.

Objectives/hypothesis: Bilateral stimulation of the posterior cricoarytenoid (PCA) muscles offers a physiologic approach to rehabilitate ventilation to a normal level in case of bilateral laryngeal paralysis. The objective was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a new generation stimulator in restoring glottal opening, ventilation, and exercise tolerance.

Study Design: A prospective study in three canines over 6 to 17 months.