Laryngeal Obstruction after Teflon Injection

Abstract

Respiratory effects of injection of teflon were studied in twelve patients with unilateral vocal cord paralysis by determination of the orolaryngeal airway resistance (R_o1). Ordinary spirometry and flow volume loops were also performed but were found to be less adequate than determination of R_o1. Within the first week postoperatively, R_o1, increased by on average about 75%. Only one patient had clinical symptoms of laryngeal obstruction. One month after the injection of teflon, R_o1 was in all patients the same as preoperatively. It is concluded that teflon injection should be used with caution in patients with severe respiratory impairment but could be used without fear of induced future respiratory effects in patients with progressive pulmonary disease.