Office-Based Injection Augmentation

Injection augmentation is often used in patients with vocal cord paralysis or paresis. The problem in these individuals is that the vocal cords do not close properly. There is often a “gap” between the vocal cords, which allows air escape during attempted speech. This produces a weak, breathy voice. Proper closure cannot be achieved because the patient lacks strength in one or both of the vocal cords.

Injection augmentation is often used in this situation to improve the voice quality. The technique involves the injection of a substance into one or both of the vocal cords. By doing this, the vocal cords are brought closer together, closing the “gap”. This results in a stronger voice.

At the NYU Voice Center, we have developed techniques which allow us to perform this procedure in the office setting under local anesthesia alone. This avoids the hassle and risk of a trip to the operating room. Also, because it is done in the office, it can be done more quickly and the recovery time is minimal.

Figure shows example of an office based injection augmentation. The patient in this procedure is wide awake, but numb. The needle is placed through the neck and can be seen entering the vocal cord on the left side of the picture. Once the needle is placed, a substance will be injected into the vocal cord, moving it closer towards the other vocal cord.