Novel experimental rabbit model of anterior glottic web formation.

CONCLUSION

The rabbit model of anterior glottic web (AGW) formation using the laryngofissure technique resulted in reproducible and stable AGW formation that may facilitate research into this area.

OBJECTIVE

To introduce and validate a novel experimental animal model of AGW formation using the rabbit.

METHODS

The inner larynges of eight New Zealand white rabbits were exposed through the laryngofissure technique. The mucosa of the bilateral true vocal fold was stripped off using the bevel of a needle tip. On the basis of the laryngoscopic findings at 8 weeks postoperatively, the extent of AGW was measured, and the success of this procedure was validated. Laryngeal specimens were sampled at 8 weeks for high-speed recording and histological analysis.

RESULTS

In seven (87.5%) rabbits, laryngoscopic examination revealed the formation of a scar band involving the anterior commissure. The mean extent of AGW ratio on the left and right sides was 0.58 ± 0.073 and 0.55 ± 0.075, respectively. The symmetric formation of AGW (p = 0.655, p = 0.128) and stability of the AGW procedure (p = 0.491, left; p = 0.501, right) were statistically validated. On high-speed recording, the vocal mucosal wave was hindered by AGW formation. Histologically, fibro-connective tissue, especially collagen fiber, was observed in the anterior commissure.