Laryngeal Reinnervation
Laryngeal reinnervation reconnects a nerve supply to the muscles of a paralysed vocal fold. Rather than only moving the fold into position, it restores tone and bulk to the muscle, so the fold behaves more like a living, working structure.
What it is
In unilateral paralysis the usual procedure connects a branch of a nearby nerve, most often the ansa cervicalis, to the recurrent laryngeal nerve. The paralysed fold does not regain normal movement, but its muscle regains tone and bulk, which improves closure and voice quality.
In bilateral paralysis, selective reinnervation aims to restore nerve supply separately to the muscles that open the airway and to those that close it, so that breathing can improve without sacrificing the voice.
Who it is for
Reinnervation is considered particularly in younger patients with unilateral paralysis, when spontaneous recovery is unlikely and the muscle can still accept a new nerve supply. Selective reinnervation is considered in selected patients with bilateral paralysis after careful assessment.
What happens
The operation is performed under general anaesthesia through an incision in the neck. A temporary injection is often given at the same time, so that the voice is supported while the nerve grows.
Recovery and results
The benefit appears gradually over months as the nerve grows, not immediately. The degree of recovery varies between patients. We are explicit that the aim is a reliable, usable voice, not a guaranteed normal one.
Experience
Laryngeal reinnervation is performed by a small number of surgeons worldwide. The director is among them, performs both unilateral and bilateral reinnervation, and teaches the technique as a faculty member of the Rouen Laryngeal Reinnervation Course.
Medically reviewed by
Associate Professor Necati Enver, MD
Laryngologist · Founder and Director, Istanbul Voice Center · Reviewed September 2026
General information only. It does not replace an individual assessment. Medical disclaimer
Frequently asked questions
What is laryngeal reinnervation?
An operation that connects a nearby nerve to the nerve supply of the laryngeal muscles, restoring tone to the paralysed vocal fold rather than only repositioning it. The benefit appears gradually over months as the nerve grows.
Who performs laryngeal reinnervation?
It is performed by a small number of surgeons worldwide. The institute's director performs unilateral and bilateral reinnervation and teaches the technique as a faculty member of the Rouen Laryngeal Reinnervation Course.
How long until the voice improves?
Months rather than weeks. A temporary injection is often given at the same time to support the voice while the nerve grows.
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