Minifenestration type I thyroplasty using an expanded polytetrafluoroethylene implant

Several methods have been used to treat laryngeal incompetence, but no idea l technique has been identified. This paper describes a clinical experience with minifenestration type I thyroplasty using a new device made of expand ed polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE). The device, a thin ribbon of ePTFE, is inserted through a 4-mm fenestration to produce vocal fold medialization. A t our center, 26 of these devices have been implanted in the past 3 years. Good or satisfactory results were achieved in 96% of cases. Advantages of t his technique include easy insertion of the implant, nominal cost and bioco mpatibility of the ePTFE device, ready availability of all instruments requ ired for the procedure, and elimination of the need to perform arytenoid ad duction.