Longitudinal voice outcomes following laryngeal reinnervation via vagus-to-recurrent laryngeal nerve anastomosis after vagal nerve sacrifice: a case series.

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.