Vocal cord medialization tool

摘要

A vocal cord medialization prosthesis includes a preformed and presized vocal cord engagement member. The engagement member has a base surface and an engagement surface that is inclined a predetermined amount with respect to the base surface. Measurement indicia is provided on the engagement member to indicate elevation of the engagement surface at predetermined points along the prosthesis. A vocal cord medialization tool is used to measure displacement of a vocal cord to an optimum phonation and breathing position before insertion of the prosthesis. The medialization tool provides measurements that correspond to sizing indicia on the prosthesis. The prosthesis can thus be trimmed to eliminate elevations that are unnecessary for obtaining optimum positioning of a vocal cord. One embodiment of the medialization tool also includes provision for measuring the thickness of a thyroid cartilage.