Safety of outpatient unilateral medialization laryngoplasty across two academic institutions

Objectives/Hypothesis

Unilateral ML is a commonly performed surgery for dysphonia secondary to glottic insufficiency. The safety of this procedure performed in the outpatient setting has not been extensively examined. The purpose of the study was to assess the safety of outpatient unilateral ML in adults and determine the incidence and timing of postoperative complications across two tertiary‐care academic medical centers.

Study Design

Retrospective chart review,

Methods

A review of patients undergoing unilateral ML at two tertiary‐care academic centers from 2011 to 2017 was performed. Patients undergoing bilateral medialization laryngoplasty, revision surgery, or those undergoing additional laryngeal framework procedures including arytenoid adduction were excluded. Patient demographics, operative details, and perioperative and postoperative complications were recorded. Comparisons were made between those individuals who underwent inpatient versus outpatient ML.

Results

One hundred three total procedures met inclusion criteria. Fifty‐seven were performed as outpatient procedures, and 46 individuals were observed for at least 23 hours following surgery. Silastic or Gore‐Tex implants were used in all but two surgeries. There were no postoperative complications in either setting, including hematoma, dyspnea, wound infections or seromas.

Conclusions

The incidence of adverse events during and immediately following unilateral ML is very low. Patients can be discharged safely the day of surgery without geographic restrictions.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 2018

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