Using electrical stimulation to help patients with vocal fold paralysis breathe better
Functional Electrical Stimulation of the Bilaterally Paralyzed Human Larynx
This study is testing a special device that helps people with breathing problems caused by vocal fold paralysis by gently stimulating the muscles in their throat, aiming to improve their breathing while keeping their voice and swallowing abilities intact.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10676071 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving breathing for patients suffering from bilateral vocal fold paralysis (BVFP) by using an implantable laryngeal pacemaker that stimulates the muscles controlling the vocal folds. The approach aims to restore natural vocal fold movement, enhancing airflow without compromising voice quality or swallowing ability. The study builds on previous findings that suggest electrical stimulation can effectively aid in muscle function recovery. Patients will be monitored to assess the effectiveness of this innovative treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with bilateral vocal fold paralysis who experience difficulty breathing.
Not a fit: Patients with unilateral vocal fold paralysis or those whose condition is not related to nerve injury may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve breathing and quality of life for patients with vocal fold paralysis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with electrical stimulation techniques in similar contexts, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, United States
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zealear, David L — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Zealear, David L
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.