Botox is actually a neurotoxin produced by a bacterium. However, with modern technology, this toxic substance has been purified and made safe for many medical uses. Botox is popularly known for its cosmetic use in eliminating facial wrinkles. In fact, its first medical use was in the treatment of strabismus, and it has long been used effectively in the treatment of various neurological disorders such as migraine, blepharospasm, torticollis, and oromandibular dystonia.
In which laryngeal disorders is Botox used?
Botox has been used in laryngeal disorders since the 1980s. In spasmodic dysphonia, a neurological condition that causes uncontrollable spasms of the vocal cords, Botox injection into the vocal cords is the primary treatment method. In some tremor patients, the larynx and vocal cords are also affected. In cases of vocal cord tremor affecting speech intelligibility, Botox injection is beneficial.
In addition, Botox injection into the vocal cords is performed alongside surgical removal of granulomas located at the back of the vocal cords. The aim here is to provide temporary rest for the vocal cords and prevent recurrence of granulomas.
In patients with bilateral vocal cord paralysis who have breathing difficulties, Botox can be applied to the vocal cord muscles after EMG evaluation, helping the patient breathe more comfortably. Bilateral vocal cord paralysis is most commonly encountered after thyroid surgery as an unwanted complication.
How is Botox applied to the vocal cords?
How long does it last?
Botox injection into the vocal cords is a simple and safe procedure performed in the office setting, under EMG guidance, while the patient is awake. The procedure takes only a few minutes. A special fine needle connected to the EMG device is used for the injection, which usually causes little to no pain. Local anesthesia can be applied to increase patient comfort.
The effect of Botox begins within 3–4 days. This effect is temporary and lasts for about 4 months, although the duration may vary from person to person. Once the effect wears off, the injection can be repeated. The doses of Botox used for the larynx are significantly lower than those used for cosmetic or neurological purposes. Therefore, systemic side effects such as generalized muscle weakness do not occur. Weakness is limited only to the injected muscles.