Vocal fold injection augmentation is one of the modern and effective treatment methods used in cases where the vocal folds cannot close completely. When there is a gap between the vocal folds, the voice may become breathy, weak, tiring, and hoarse. The aim of injection augmentation is to improve vocal fold closure in order to achieve a stronger, clearer, and better-quality voice.
Vocal fold injection augmentation is most commonly used in unilateral vocal fold paralysis. It may also be performed in cases of age-related voice weakness, vocal fold volume loss, vocal fold atrophy, and glottic insufficiency following certain voice surgeries. It can provide significant improvement, especially in patients who experience vocal fatigue and shortness of breath during prolonged speaking.
When Is It Performed?
Vocal fold injection augmentation is commonly preferred in the following conditions:
- Unilateral vocal fold paralysis
- Vocal fold thinning or volume loss
- Age-related voice weakness
- Vocal fold atrophy
- Glottic insufficiency after vocal fold surgery
- Breathy and weak voice
- Selected voice problems in professional voice users
Since every patient’s voice problem is different, the treatment plan is individualized.
During the procedure, specialized injectable materials are placed into the vocal fold. The goal is to move the weak or paralyzed vocal fold closer to the midline so that it can achieve better contact with the opposite vocal fold. This reduces air leakage during speech and helps produce a stronger voice.
Vocal fold injection augmentation may be performed under local anesthesia in the office setting for some patients, while in other cases short general anesthesia in the operating room may be preferred. The procedure is generally brief, and most patients are able to return to their daily activities on the same day.
The injectable material used is selected according to the patient’s voice disorder, the degree of glottic gap, and the desired duration of effect. Some materials provide temporary improvement, while others may offer longer-lasting results.
The goal of vocal fold injection augmentation is not only to strengthen the voice. An individualized treatment plan is created by considering the patient’s profession, daily vocal demands, lifestyle, and expectations. Detailed voice assessment is especially important in professional voice users such as teachers, lawyers, executives, call center workers, actors, and singers.
With appropriate patient selection and proper technique, vocal fold injection augmentation can significantly improve communication comfort and overall quality of life.