Suture laterofixation of the vocal fold for bilateral vocal fold immobility.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To review the recent published literature on the subject of suture laterofixation for bilateral vocal fold immobility, to evaluate outcomes, and to assess advances and modifications of the procedure during the review period.

RECENT FINDINGS: Suture laterofixation offers potential benefits over other surgical procedures employed in the treatment of bilateral vocal fold immobility. The procedure is potentially reversible, avoids long-term consequences of ablative procedures such as arytenoidectomy, and can be accomplished under jet ventilation without the need for tracheostomy. Modifications to the technique such as increasing suture size and utilizing a dual suture technique may decrease the risk of injury to the vocal fold mucosa. The advantages of suture laterofixation have argued for closer scrutiny as a potential treatment for pediatric patients.

SUMMARY: Suture laterofixation is an important option in the treatment of bilateral vocal fold immobility. Laryngologists should be aware of the potential advantages over other procedures, particularly those that necessitate surgical ablation of the arytenoid or vocal fold.