Methods of Fat Tissue Processing for Human Vocal Fold Injection: A Systematic Review

SummaryObjectivesWe analyzed different methods used to process autologous fat tissues for vocal fold injection (VFI). VFI is a safe procedure that preserves the folds' original elasticity and vibration properties and rarely triggers foreign-body reactions, but is often a temporary treatment due to fat reabsorption. To avoid it, selecting a technique that provides as many viable implantable adipocytes as possible is mandatory.Study DesignThis is a systematic review.MethodsData were collected from PubMed, Embase, Ovid, and Cochrane Library. Authors systematically reviewed databases for papers on autologous fat tissue processing methods involving human injections in vocal folds and vocalization outcomes that evolved the acoustic analysis of the voice before and after the surgical procedure, independently of the follow-up time.ResultsNine out of the 517 articles met selection criteria for analysis. No standardized technique was found.ConclusionThere is no standardized technique for processing fat tissue for vocal fold injection. Further research is needed to point out the best available technique.