Vocal mechanics as the basis for phonosurgery

• Published in: The Laryngoscope 1998-12, Vol.108 (12), p.1761-1766
• Main Author: Isshiki, Nobuhiko
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Biomechanical Phenomena; Hoarseness - physiopathology; Hoarseness - surgery; Humans; Laryngoscopy; Larynx - surgery; Voice - physiology; Voice Disorders - physiopathology; Voice Disorders - surgery
• ISSN: 0023-852X; 1531-4995
• DOI: 10.1097/00005537-199812000-00001

Objective: A number of modifications in laryngoplastic phonosurgery have recently been proposed. This report is intended to clarify the concept on which the surgery should be based, vocal mechanics, for further rational development of the surgery. Study Design: The results of various previous surgeries were compared. In an attempt to elucidate what makes the difference in the results, simulation of voice production was conducted with the use of excised larynges. Methods: Excised larynges were mounted on a tube so as to be blown from below. Experimental variables in the model included the glottal area initially set, stiffness of the vocal folds, and subglottal pressure. The conditions under which the voice became hoarse were examined. Results: The voice became hoarse under the following major conditions: 1) the initial glottal area exceeded a certain value, 2) stiffness was too high, and 3) the glottis was too tightly closed. Clinical representation for each condition was made, particularly for excessively tight glottal closure such as in spasmodic dysphonia. A new type of surgical treatment for spasmodic dysphonia, lateralization thyroplasty, was briefly reported, which restored the voice to normal without recurrence for 1 year at the time of this writing. Conclusions: A potential new type of laryngoplastic phonosurgery should be conformed to the mechanics of voice production. In treating dysphonia, it is often necessary to switch from etiologic or radical treatment, if infertile, to symptomatic treatment instead, at the level of mechanics.