A new implant to reduce vocal fold scarring and improve voice quality
INJECTABLE, TUNABLE THERAPEUTIC IMPLANT TO REDUCE VOCAL FOLD SCAR
This study is testing a new injectable implant that slowly releases medication to help heal the vocal folds, making it easier for people with voice problems to recover and improve their voice without causing more discomfort or scarring.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Cincinnati NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10833645 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel injectable implant designed to deliver corticosteroids to the vocal folds over an extended period. The implant aims to optimize wound healing in the delicate structure of the vocal folds, which is crucial for restoring voice function. By providing a sustained release of medication or activating it with laser light, the treatment seeks to minimize discomfort and improve the effectiveness of therapy for vocal fold scarring. This approach addresses the limitations of current treatment methods, which often lead to further scarring and voice dysfunction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing voice disorders due to vocal fold scarring.
Not a fit: Patients with voice disorders not related to vocal fold scarring may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve voice quality and quality of life for patients suffering from vocal fold scarring.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been attempts to use local corticosteroid delivery for vocal fold treatment, this specific approach with a tunable implant is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Cincinnati, United States
- University of Cincinnati — Cincinnati, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dion, Gregory Robert — University of Cincinnati
- Study coordinator: Dion, Gregory Robert
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.