Botulinum toxin A injection under electromyographic guidance for treatment of spasmodic dysphonia

J Laryngol Otol. 2008 Jan;122(1):52-6. doi: 10.1017/S0022215107007852. Epub 2007 May 1.

Abstract

Spasmodic dysphonia is a disabling voice condition caused by a chronic neurological disorder of central motor processing. Present therapy is directed at relief of symptoms rather than cure. Botulinum toxin type A injection into the thyroarytenoid muscle has become the pre-eminent approach for treatment of adductor spasmodic dysphonia. Botulinum toxin A injections can be performed in an out-patient setting under electromyographic guidance. We present our experience with 153 injections in 14 patients with adductor spasmodic dysphonia over a 10-year period. We demonstrate that the electromyography signal is a reliable prognostic indicator in terms of efficacy, and that patients' subjective opinion is a valid indicator of treatment success and future treatment strategy.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A / administration & dosage*
  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A / therapeutic use
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Electromyography
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Injections, Intramuscular / methods
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neuromuscular Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Neuromuscular Agents / therapeutic use
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Voice Disorders / drug therapy*
  • Voice Disorders / physiopathology

Substances

  • Neuromuscular Agents
  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A