When a recurrent laryngeal nerve injury is recognized postoperatively, what is a common treatment method?

In the case of recurrent laryngeal nerve injury recognized postoperatively, medialization of the vocal cords is a common treatment method. This intervention addresses the issue of glottic incompetence, which occurs due to paralysis of the vocal cords when the recurrent laryngeal nerve is damaged.

Medialization techniques, such as injection laryngoplasty or a thyroplasty procedure, aim to reposition the paralyzed vocal cord toward the midline, which can improve voice quality and airway protection. This is particularly important for individuals experiencing vocal difficulties or aspiration due to the inability to adequately close the airway during phonation or swallowing.

Voice therapy, laryngeal surgery, and medication to reduce swelling may be part of a broader treatment approach, but they do not directly address the mechanical disfunction caused by the nerve injury as effectively as medialization does. Voice therapy can be supportive but may not provide immediate improvement in loudness or quality post-injury. Laryngeal surgery may not be indicated unless there are structural changes requiring intervention, and medication to reduce swelling typically applies to inflammatory conditions rather than direct nerve injuries. Hence, medialization stands out as the most relevant and practical approach for the specific issue of vocal cord paralysis resulting from recurrent