of Work: This project is evaluating the use and efficacy of neuromuscular stimulation by a neuroprosthesis in the treatment of central motor control disorders affecting voice and swallowing. It involves a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement with Medtronic, Inc. Chronic neuromuscular stimulation of the thyroarytenoid muscle was evaluated in an animal model system this year. The implanted system remained viable and maintained the same movement threshold, displacement and velocity over 4 to 8 months with intermittent stimulation of the thyroarytenoid muscle. Bilateral thyroarytenoid stimulation achieved adequate glottic closure for airway protection. At present the kinematic results of chronic stimulation are being evaluated during 1) mylohyoid muscle stimulation to elevate the larynx for swallowing and 2) lateral cricoarytenoid stimulation to adduct the vocal folds for voicing. Clinical outpatient studies are evaluating the effects of thyroarytenoid and lateral cricoarytenoid neuromuscular stimulation on voice in healthy volunteers and persons with abductor spasmodic dysphonia. An application for a Phase I Clinical Trial in persons with voice and swallowing disorders is planned for next year.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD)
Type
Intramural Research (Z01)
Project #
1Z01DC000042-01
Application #
6161768
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (VSS)
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
Budget End
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
1997
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
State
Country
United States
Zip Code