Endoscopic extralaryngeal approach subtotal arytenoldectomy in the treatment of bilateral vocalcord paralysis

Objective:To evaluate endoscopic extralaryngeal approach subtotal arytenoldectomy for the treatment of bilateral vocal cord paralysis.Metnod:Thirteen cases of bilateral median vocal cord paralysis was operated by endoscopic extralaryngeal approach unilateral subtotal arytenoldectomy. All of them had tracheostomy before. The airway was modified about 5～6 mm via endoscopic in operating. The airway was evaluated by fibro laryngoscopy, and the voice quality was assessed subjectively by the patients and the surgean before and after surgery.Result:All cases were followed-up 6～36 months. The function of airway successfully restored, and the voice quality was kept satisfactory.All patients were decannulated after 8 to 15 days within the mean time 11.5 days post-operation. There were no granulation and no aspiration at the surgical site post operateally.Conclusion:The operation of extralaryngeal approach unilateral subtotal arytenoldectomy in endoscopy is a better restoration of airway with satisfying voice and without aspiration after operation.The procedure is simple,reliable and efficient for treatment of patients with bilateral median vocal cord paralysis.