The arytenoid adduction procedure is sometimes used in conjunction with thyroplasty (medialization laryngoplasty), the procedure in which an implant is used to reposition a paralyzed vocal fold.

The arytenoid cartilage attaches to the back of each vocal fold, and the arytenoids are involved in opening the vocal folds for breathing, and closing them for speaking.

In some cases, a vocal fold paralysis can cause one arytenoid to sag, so that the vocal folds are positioned at slightly different levels. This difference impairs the vibration of the vocal folds, and it can make the voice very hoarse and weak.

The arytenoid adduction procedure is designed to reposition the portion of the arytenoid cartilage attached to the vocal fold, bringing it to the same level as the healthy vocal fold. In situations where the implant alone does not provide adequate voice, the arytenoid adduction can be added to maximize the position of the vocal fold.

When arytenoid adduction is used, it is usually done at the same time as thyroplasty.

This article is intended as a resource for patients receiving their voice care at Duke Voice Care Center. It is not intended to substitute for medical advice from your health care team. If your doctor’s instructions differ from the information in this article, please talk with your doctor before making any changes.