What is Thyroplasty?

Thyroplasty is also known as laryngeal framework surgery. Thyroplasty is a surgical procedure that is executed to modify the voice by changing the cartilages of the larynx. The vocal chords, inside the Larynx are changed and repositioned to change the voice. Thyroplasty is also known as laryngeal framework surgery.

Procedure

Patient is anesthetized.

A small incision is made in the skin near the larynx.

A small piece of thyroid cartilage is removed and replaced with a small block of silastic (A polymeric silicone substances having the properties of rubber. Silastic tubing is used for temporary implants in tissue. It pushes the vocal chord to midline hence improving the chord closure.)

A flexible bronchoscope is inserted through the patient's nose to observe the placement of the block.

Post Procedure

The patient is suggested to speak in a low tone/voice after the surgery and refrain from whispering and yelling.

No of days for the Procedure

Thyroplasty generally takes 1 to 2 hours. The patient is kept for observation and discharged the next day.

Risks

There are no such evident side effects of thyroplasty other than some temporary effects such as swelling and discomfort.

Thyroplasty is a comparatively short time and painless surgery.