Induction Course for Laryngeal Framework Surgery at Institutions Having no Instructing Physician, Supported by Hospital Staff

Abstract

The usefulness of laryngeal framework surgery (LFS) for unilateral vocal cord paralysis is well known, but only a limited number of institutions normally perform this surgery. We introduced an induction course for laryngeal framework surgery at an institution having no instructing physician, supported by hospital staff. Our experience indicated that the induction course works well if certain conditions are met: for example, sufficient experience in neck surgery by the physician undergoing the training, and innovation in the administration of anesthesia. For optimal LFS training, it is preferable for the instructor and trainee to undergo the induction course at the same institution; however, when assignment to a different facility is not possible, the hospital collaboration system can support mastery of LFS by trainees at institutions where there is no instructing physician on the staff.