Low power CO2 for treatment of bilateral vocal chord paralysis

Introduction: The bilateral adduction paralysis of the vocal chords produce a mechanical respiratory obstruction of the upper respiratory tract by reduction of glottic space and consequently increase in breathing resistance. We wanted to detect the effectiveness of a new system of CO2 laser treatment for this disease and the results at a distance by considering the development of complications. Materials and Methods: 8 patients were selected - 5 females (62.5%) and 3 males (37.5%) with a mean age of 43.9 years, with adduction vocal chords paralysis treated with aritenoidectomy using a CO2 laser, to last generation, used in “superpulse” modality at low power (3.5-4 Watt). Patients were evaluated by means of fibrolaryngoscopy, FEV 1, FEV max, Multi Speech 3500 (Kay) spectrography, aerodynamic study with Aerophon II, for three years after the treatment, every 3 months during the first year and then every 6 months. Results: The results showed that the variation technique induce a low rate of complications due to the poor production of fibrin in the operative field and a slight charring of tissue, with a more rapid functional restore in breathing and in making vocal use. Discussion: Endoscopic surgery using a CO2 laser is an excellent choise to traditional surgery because of his advantages and reduced traumatism. Conclusion: The bilateral adduction paralysis of the vocal chords have to be treated with aritenoidectomy using CO2 laser used in “superpulse” modality at low power (3.5–4 Watt).