Hyaluronidase Injection in the Vocal Folds for Vocal Hemorrhage, Reinke Edema, and Hyaluronic Acid Overinjection: A Novel Application in the Larynx

Hyaluronidase (HAase) injection into the vocal folds is an off-label use of an enzyme for liquefaction of hyaluronic acid (HA). HAase injection was performed in 14 cases in 13 patients. Office and operative injections of HAase were performed. The indications were five cases of overinjection of HA, six cases of Reinke edema and polypoid corditis, and three cases of acute vocal hemorrhage with early fusiform polyp formation. All the patients tolerated the HAase without complications. Significant voice improvements were noted between pre- and postinjection procedures as evaluated by a self-rating of voice by the Voice Handicap Index-10. A marked decrement in the mass on the side of the injection of HAase was noted in all groups successfully injected upon viewing by videostroboscopy. HAase prevented an additional operative phonosurgery in 10 patients. In conclusion, HAase injection can be used in the vocal folds with good effect in patients. The indications are polypoid corditis with overproduction of HA, acute vocal hemorrhage, and correction of iatrogenic HA overinjection.