Thyroplasty in India

Home >> Medical Treatments >> ENT Treatment in India >> Thyroplasty in India

What is Thyroplasty?

Thyroplasty is a surgical procedure performed to implant a device in the larynx or voice box, specifically alongside the vocal cord. This procedure involves adjusting the position of the vocal cord to enhance its strength. The implant serves the purpose of helping the paralyzed vocal cord reach the midline. The surgery aims to address issues resulting from vocal cord weakness, such as difficulties in swallowing leading to choking or coughing, and it also corrects voice disorders.

Different Types of Thyroplasty

Type 1 Thyroplasty : The surgical procedure involves bringing the vocal cords closer together to alleviate the effects of abductor spasms.

Type 2 Thyroplasty : The surgical procedure is carried out by inserting a shim to separate the vocal cords, preventing them from coming into contact during spasms.

Thyroplasty Procedure

  • The surgery is conducted under a combination of local anesthesia and intravenous sedation administered to the patient.
  • An incision is made along the crease of the neck.
  • A fiber optic laryngoscope is utilized to observe the vocal cords, and topical anesthesia is administered in the nose.
  • During the surgery, the surgeon may request the patient to speak to assess improvements in the voice as adjustments are made to the vocal cords.
  • Steroids can be employed to reduce swelling, and often, swelling poses challenges in accurately measuring the size of both the placements and implants.
  • Following the procedure, the surgeon closes the incision and covers it with a dressing.

Before Thyroplasty (Vocal Fold Surgery)

  • Vocal cords are thoroughly examined.
  • Voice tests are performed.
  • Laryngeal stroboscopy is conducted to assess the pliability and closure of the vocal folds.
  • The aerodynamic needs of the patients are evaluated based on the characteristics of their airway.
  • The choice of Thyroplasty type is determined by assessing the specific needs of the patient.

Vocal Cord Paralysis

Vocal cord (vocal fold) paralysis is a condition that impacts the voice due to a disorder. It occurs when one or both vocal folds (vocal cords) fail to open or close correctly. Vocal fold paralysis can be classified into two types :

Bilateral Vocal Cord : In this type, both vocal cords are affected, remaining stuck midway between paramedian positions and exhibiting no movement.

Unilateral Vocal Fold Paralysis : In this scenario, only one side is paralyzed, positioned between a state of closure and openness. The paralyzed fold fails to vibrate with the unaffected fold, leading to either abnormal vibration or complete lack of vibration. Individuals experiencing this type of vocal cord paralysis often struggle to speak clearly and effectively. It is the most prevalent form of vocal cord paralysis.

Symptoms for Vocal Cord Paralysis

  • Facing difficulty in breathing
  • Hoarse or breathy voice
  • Choking or coughing while eating
  • Problem in speaking loudly
  • Problem in projecting the voice loudly
  • Limited pitch
  • The issue of pneumonia arises when both food and liquid enter the lungs.

Vocal Cord Paralysis Causes

Paralysis can be triggered by factors such as tumors, strokes, diseases, and head and neck injuries. The vagus nerve, responsible for controlling the movement of the vocal cords and extending from the brainstem to the voice box (larynx), can be affected. Damage or injury to the vagus nerve stands out as the primary cause of vocal cord paralysis.

Diagnosis Code for Vocal Cord Paralysis

Several tests are conducted to diagnose the issue :

  • Laryngeal electromyography (EMG) is performed to assess muscle function, involving the placement of electrodes inside the voice box.
  • Neck CT scans
  • An endoscope is inserted either through the mouth or the nose to examine the vocal folds (vocal cords).
  • A stroboscope is employed to observe the movement of the vocal folds.
  • To observe the process of liquid and food moving from the mouth to the esophagus, the modified barium swallow procedure is conducted, often utilizing X-ray methods.

Treatments for Vocal Cord Paralysis

  • Bilateral vocal fold issues can be addressed medically, requiring a tracheotomy to ensure safe breathing and eating. The objective is to maintain a secure airway through a tracheotomy, which involves creating an opening in the neck. Surgical procedures such as Arytenoidectomy and Cordotomy may also be performed to open the airway.
  • The medical condition of unilateral vocal cord paralysis can be addressed through speech therapy and various medical procedures. Some of the different procedures include :
  • Enlarging the paralyzed vocal fold can be achieved through the use of injections. The selection of different injection materials is based on their long-term effects.
  • Thyroplasty is another surgical procedure that can be considered.
  • The surgical procedure of Arytenoid can be performed in conjunction with Thyroplasty.
  • The speech-language pathologist plays a crucial role in the treatment, conducting speech therapy for the patient. This therapy, which may be the sole treatment required, involves stress reduction techniques, vocal exercises, and addressing behaviors that may adversely impact the voice.

Vocal Cord Disorder

Some of the most common vocal disorders include :

  • Vocal Cord Nodules : This disorder, often caused by vocal abuse, manifests as small, hard nodules. Typically occurring in pairs, there is a single nodule on each vocal cord, where increased irritation is observed.

  • Laryngitis : This disorder results from infection or inflammation, leading to the swelling of the vocal cords. Severe inflammation can cause a person to lose their voice.

  • Vocal Cord Polyps : A polyp is a soft, small growth that tends to develop on a vocal cord. Prolonged exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke, chemical fumes, and vocal abuse can contribute to the formation of vocal cord polyps.

  • Contact Ulcers : This disorder, although less common, involves sores and erosions located on the vocal cord. The primary cause is excessive force exerted before initiating speech. Public speakers are particularly susceptible to these ulcers.

Start your Journey to Good Health With The Third Eye Medical Services

Start your Journey to Good Health With The Third Eye Medical Services
3,200 + Patients Assisted
From 36+ Countries
250+ Top Hospitals and Clinics
1250+ Specialized Doctors
24x7 Medical consultant available
Best Treatment Costs
ENT Treatment in India
Tonsil Surgery
Sleep Apnea Treatment
Enlarged Adenoids Treatment
Septoplasty Surgery
Turbinate Reduction
Nasal Polyps Treatment
Myringotomy (Ear Surgery)
Sinus Surgery
Nasal Surgery
Laser Vocal Cord Surgery
Block Neck Dissection
Thyroplasty
Laryngectomy Surgery
Cochlear Implant Surgery
Ossiculoplasty Surgery
Tympanoplasty Surgery
Stapedectomy Surgery
Why India
Medical Tourism Guidelines in India
Advantages of Medical Tourism in India
Wellness Holidays in India
Essentials for Medical Tourism Trip
* You can also email your medical reports to info@ttems.in for thorough medical advise.