Glottis injection to improve voice function : Review of more than 500 operations

Hoarseness due to insufficient glottal closure can be treated by injection laryngoplasty (augmentation). Vocal fold injections can be performed as an in-office procedure or under general anesthesia. As injection materials have recently improved and different injection approaches are available, injection laryngoplasties are performed much more frequently. Advantages and disadvantages of injection materials, laryngeal approaches, and differential indications are described. Literature research and experience of more than 500 laryngeal injection procedures are provided. Sophisticated use of available injection materials can provide a satisfying improvement of voice function with minimal patient discomfort. Adequate indication is mandatory for a favorable outcome. Further improvement regarding biocompatibility and the duration of injection materials is desirable.