[Endoscopic medialization with Vox implant: our experience].

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this work is to analyze our preliminary results on the endoscopic vocal cords medialization by Bioplastique.

MATERIAL AND METHOD: This was a retrospective study on 39 cases of unilateral laryngeal paralysis, treated with the injection of Vox-implant between May 2004 and August 2006. The evolution of the swallowing disorders was followed by video fluoroscopy. The phoniatric evaluation was based on an auto evaluation questionnaire: Voice Handicap Index 10 (VHI-10).

RESULTS: Of the 19 patients who presented with swallowing disorder, 18 gave a normal video fluoroscopy test. In only one case, a second injection, one year later was necessary to completely cure the patient from fluid aspirations. Thirty two patients were satisfied with the post-operative vocal results. The Wilcoxon matched pairs test gave a statistically significant difference between pre and post-operative VHI-10 (p< 0,001). The voice handicap improved approximately 53%.

CONCLUSION: Bioplastic Vox-lmplant profits from a simple injection technique, it is well tolerated and gives a good voice quality. It allows moreover a fast and simple resolution of the problem, can be repeated, and in case of failure or insufficiency a thyroplasty remains possible.