What treatment option is specifically used for adductor spasmodic dysphonia?

Adductor spasmodic dysphonia is a voice disorder characterized by involuntary contractions of the muscles that control the vocal cords, leading to a strained and strangled voice quality. The treatment that is specifically used for adductor spasmodic dysphonia is botulinum toxin, commonly known by the brand name Botox.

Botulinum toxin works by temporarily blocking the nerve signals to the affected muscles, which reduces the spasms and allows for smoother voice production. This treatment can significantly improve vocal quality and ease of speaking for individuals with this condition. The effects typically last for several months, after which additional injections may be needed.

Other treatment options listed, such as Gelfoam, collagen, and autologous fat, are mainly used for voice or laryngeal augmentation and are not specifically aimed at addressing the spasmodic dysphonia itself. These options do not provide the targeted neuromuscular control needed to manage the symptoms of adductor spasmodic dysphonia effectively. Thus, botulinum toxin remains the first-line treatment specifically formulated to address the spasms associated with this disorder.