%0 Journal Article
%T Vocal fold scars: a common classification proposal by the American Laryngological Association and European Laryngological Society.
%A Hantzakos A
%A Dikkers FG
%A Giovanni A
%A Benninger MS
%A Remacle M
%A Sjögren EV
%A Woo P
%J Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol
%V 276
%N 8
%D Aug 2019
%M 31144013
%F 3.236
%R 10.1007/s00405-019-05489-3
%X <B>OBJECTIVE: </B>Vocal fold scar is one the most challenging benign laryngeal pathologies. The purpose of this paper is to propose a classification that will allow for a common description of this entity between laryngologists, prevent discrepancies in interpretation, allow for comparison of related studies, and offer a training tool for young laryngologists.<BR><B>RESULTS: </B>Based on the depth and laterality of scarring, we propose 4 types: type I, characterized by atrophy of lamina propria with/without affected epithelium; type II, where the epithelium, lamina propria, and muscle are affected; type III, where the scar is located on the anterior commissure; type IV, which includes extended scar formation in both anteroposterior and rostro-caudal axis with significant loss of vocal fold mass.<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>We believe that our proposal is comprehensive and encompasses all existing iatrogenic and non-iatrogenic etiologies in a simple and concise manner. It also serves its purpose as a descriptive, comparative, and training tool.