Tubular expanded polytetrafluoroethylene implants in glottal and neoglottal insufficiency: implantation technique in an animal model.

The problem of the therapy of glottal and neoglottal insufficiency is still unsolved. The surgical techniques and the materials employed up until now are not completely free from possible partial or total failures, early or late complications, or the need of a second operation. The objective of the study is to introduce a new thyroplasty technique of inserting tubular expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (e-PTFE) into the larynx of an animal model, with the purpose of using it next in human laryngeal tissue augmentation. Seven 30 kg pigs had tubular e-PTFE implanted under endoscopic control into a vocal fold or laryngeal vestibule. The implants were secured by suture to the thyroid cartilage. Short-term results demonstrate the ease and effectiveness of this mini-invasive implant surgical technique. Long-term follow-up is underway in anticipation of applying this technique to human laryngeal tissue augmentation.