This study evaluates the efficacy of autologous fat injection for medialization of the paralyzed vocal fold. In 21 patients with unilateral vocal fold paralysis, autologous abdominal fat was injected into the thyroarytenoid muscle to achieve medialization. All patients were followed up with serial videolaryngoscopy and voice evaluation. At 2 months' follow-up, the voice was judged to be excellent in 10 patients, slightly breathy but significantly better than the preoperative voice in 6 patients, and markedly breathy in 4 patients. At 3 to 4 months' follow-up, of the 10 patients with excellent results, 5 maintained an excellent voice, 3 had developed slight breathiness, and 1 had developed severe breathiness. Long-term (6 to 12 months) results were available in 11 patients, and all of them maintained the same voice quality that was noted during the 3 to 4 months' examination. Magnetic resonance imaging of the larynx was obtained in 7 patients at intervals ranging from 1 to 7 months and compared to the baseline scan obtained at 1 week postoperative to assess the amount of fat remaining in the muscle. The images showed fat volume to persist, but a decrease in the fat signal was observed over time. The results suggest that the duration of medialization with autologous fat is variable, but appears to last at least 2 to 3 months. This loss of volume after 3 months seems to be due to absorption of the fat and possibly muscle atrophy. Autologous fat injection is relatively safe and easy to perform, and is an ideal method of temporary vocal fold medialization in patients in whom return of vocal fold function is expected.

Many techniques have been developed for medialization of the paralyzed vocal fold. The purpose of this study is to evaluate autologous fat as an alternative to alloplastic substances for use in vocal fold medialization. Eight dogs underwent left recurrent laryngeal nerve sectioning. Autologous fat was harvested, and the paralyzed vocal fold was medialized by injecting the fat into the thyroarytenoid muscle. The animals were divided into three groups for evaluation at 1, 3, and 6 months. Videolaryngoscopy was performed prior to sacrificing the animals. The larynges were sectioned coronally, and histologic studies were performed. The studies confirmed the preservation of viable fat at the injected site in all animals. Only a minimal inflammatory response was observed in the 1-month group. It would appear that fat injection is a viable alternative to Teflon injection and thyroplasty; it eliminates the need for alloplastic materials, does not appear to migrate, and does not require an open procedure.

The cricothyroid muscle is capable of multiple functions, including vocal cord elongation and adduction. In addition, the cricothyroid can lengthen the glottis as well as provide posture to the cricothyroid joint. The purpose of the present study is to demonstrate that the many functional capabilities of the cricothyroid are a reflection of the existence of separate bellies within the muscle. Microdissection revealed three distinct muscle bellies within the cricothyroid: rectus, oblique, and horizontal. These differ in fiber orientation (rectus 79°, oblique 48°, horizontal 7°) and are separated by fascial planes. Histochemistry showed that these three bellies are composed of different percentages of slow twitch fibers (rectus 31.3%, oblique 43.3%, horizontal 39.6%). Finally, electromyography demonstrated differences in the electrical activity patterns of the three bellies. It is concluded that the cricothyroid muscle is composed of three distinct muscle bellies that probably play separate roles in the complex function of this muscle.

An impending physician shortage has been projected. The article by Kim, Cooper, and Kennedy, titled "Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Physician Workforce Issues: An Analysis for Future Specialty Planning," is an attempt to evaluate and address this potential shortage as it applies to otolaryngology. The authors of this comment have concerns about the article's assumptions, design, and recommendations. Kim et al attempt to extrapolate data from other specialties and other countries to the US otolaryngology workforce, use that data in modeling methods without demonstrated validity, and based on their analysis, they recommend drastic changes to otolaryngologic training and practice in the United States. Particularly troublesome are (1) the emphasis placed on gender and part-time work and (2) the measurement of productivity defined as hours worked per week. Before redefining our specialty, more thorough and systematic data acquisition and review are necessary to meet the needs of our patients now and in the future.

Background: Direct support professionals (DSP) are instrumental in supporting the health care of individuals with intellectual disabilities, yet receive little training and support for this role. We implemented a capacity building intervention for DSPs in a community agency in Ontario, Canada. This study evaluated the perceived value and feasibility of the intervention and the value of a structured implementation approach.Method: The intervention included communication tools, a health resource toolkit, and training. A mixed methods evaluation was used to collect feedback from DSPs and people with intellectual disabilities.Results: Participants generally found the intervention valuable and feasible. Although practice change is difficult, extensive engagement and being responsive to feedback were helpful strategies. The primary concern reported by DSPs was resistance from health care providers. Conclusion:An important next step is to engage health care providers to ensure the tools are valuable and feasible for everyone involved in the health encounter.