A new implant for long-lasting voice and swallowing improvement
Translating a biostimulatory implant for the long-term treatment of glottic insufficiency
This research is developing a new type of implant to help people with glottic insufficiency, a condition that affects voice and swallowing.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11135429 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many people experience glottic insufficiency, which can make it hard to speak and swallow due to issues with the vocal cords. Current treatments often involve temporary implants that don't fully restore vocal cord movement and may not last very long. This project aims to create a new, specially designed implant that can better match the natural vocal cords. We hope this new material will integrate well with the body, reduce inflammation, and provide a more permanent solution for improving vocal function.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients who experience glottic insufficiency due to vocal fold paralysis, aging, trauma, surgery, or radiation may eventually be candidates for this type of treatment.
Not a fit: Patients whose glottic insufficiency is not related to vocal fold structure or biomechanics may not benefit from this specific implant.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this new implant could offer a more durable and effective way to restore voice and swallowing function for individuals with glottic insufficiency.
How similar studies have performed: While current temporary implants exist, this approach focuses on a novel material designed to overcome their limitations in biomechanics and long-term integration.
Where this research is happening
Charlottesville, United States
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Daniero, James J. — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Daniero, James J.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.