Abstract:

Surgical treatment of bilateral abductor paralysis of vocal cords is still a question for debate . Its aim is –rather paradoxically-to restore an adequate respiratory space and to respect phonatory function. In this study, we report our experience with the Thornell’s approach for 44 cases of bilateral vocal cord paralysis. 43 of 44 patients were decannulated succesfully. Breathing and voice quality were acceptable in all patients except one. Contralateral arytenoidectomy was necessary in that patient 3 months later. There were no complications such as hemorrhage, web formation, granulation tissue, aspiration. We suggested that this method which has been proved to cause minimal trauma, was simple to carry out and had produced excellent results. Although the development of new techniques for treating this problem should continue, classic techniques remain valid

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