Treatment for each of the four forms of vocal cord paralysis are different:

 

    Unilateral adductor paralysis is often handled with a teflon injection into the affected vocal cord. The teflon injection increases the girth of the abnormal vocal cord, allowing it to make contact with the normal vocal cord. This procedure’s success varies from patient to patient depending on the size of their glottal opening. The teflon injection is found to be less effective in patients with a larger glottal opening. Another option for this condition is a surgical nerve transplant into the vocal fold muscle. A surgical approach should only be considered nine months after onset, because speech therapy has been effective with this disorder.

    Vocal therapy doesn’t involve fixing the abnormal vocal fold, but increases the quality of the voice for a patient exhibiting unilateral adductor paralysis. This type of vocal therapy includes work  on breath control and ear training to increase glottal attack.

 

    In order to cure bilateral adductor paralysis, which is most often caused by brain stem impairment, a surgical approach is necessary. Surgery, however, comes secondary to any neurological condition that may be present, seeing as bilateral adductor paralysis is sometimes a symptom of something much more serious.

 

    In the case of unilateral abductor paralysis, surgery is usually not necessary unless the airway of the patient is compromised. This surgical procedure involves the creation of a larger glottis to clear the obstructed airway. Again, this procedure is not common due to the chance of nerve regeneration and possibilities of vocal improvement with speech therapy.  The speech therapy for unilateral abductor paralysis entails ear training, establishing a new pitch, relaxation, and respiration training.

 

    Finally, bilateral abductor paralysis is initially handled with an immediate tracheotomy to create an airway. If the condition persists after a week or so, patients typically decide to proceed with a surgical reconstruction of the larynx. This procedure will allow the patient to breathe normally again, but the patient’s voice is generally not the same as before. Vocal therapy is helpful in regaining normal speech, but a certain level of hoarseness is usually always apparent.