In simple words: This surgery fixes a problem with the voice box where one vocal cord doesn't move properly. The surgeon makes a small cut in the neck, moves the vocal cord to improve breathing, speaking, and swallowing, and inserts a small implant to keep it in place.

Medialization laryngoplasty (Type I thyroplasty) is a surgical procedure to restore the function of the larynx (voice box) by repositioning a displaced or paralyzed vocal cord.A small incision is made in the neck, and a window is created in the larynx to access the vocal cord. An implant or graft is inserted to move the affected vocal cord towards the midline, improving breathing, vocalization, and swallowing. A laryngoscope may be used to examine vocal cord position and make adjustments.The procedure addresses unilateral vocal cord paralysis or other conditions causing glottic insufficiency.

Example 1: A 55-year-old female presents with hoarseness and dysphagia following a surgical procedure on her neck.A laryngeal examination reveals unilateral vocal fold paralysis. Medialization laryngoplasty is performed to restore vocal cord function., A 70-year-old male with a history of vocal cord dysfunction due to a neurological disorder exhibits significant dyspnea. A medialization laryngoplasty is used to improve airway patency and reduce breathing difficulties., A 30-year-old transgender individual seeks voice feminization.Medialization laryngoplasty is part of a multi-step procedure to adjust vocal pitch and quality.

Pre-operative laryngeal examination, intra-operative images/videos, postoperative laryngoscopy findings and audio recordings of vocal quality, pathology reports (if applicable).

** Implant extrusion is a potential complication.The choice between medialization laryngoplasty and injection laryngoplasty depends on factors such as patient preference, medical history, and anticipated longevity of the treatment.Pre-operative assessment must carefully consider the patient's overall health status.