Characterization of vocal fold scar formation, prophylaxis, and treatment using animal models.
OBJECTIVE
To review recent literature on animal models used to study the pathogenesis, detection, prevention, and treatment of vocal fold scarring. Animal work is critical to studying vocal fold scarring because it is the only way to conduct systematic research on the biomechanical properties of the layered structure of the vocal fold lamina propria, and therefore develop reliable prevention and treatment strategies for this complex clinical problem.


RESULTS
During the period of review, critical anatomic, physiologic, and wound healing characteristics, which may serve as the bases for selection of a certain species to help answer a specific question, have been described in mouse, rat, rabbit, ferret, and canine models. A number of different strategies for prophylaxis and chronic scar treatment in animals show promise for clinical application. The pathways of scar formation and methods for quantifying treatment-induced change have become better defined.


CONCLUSIONS
Recent animal vocal fold scarring studies have enriched and confirmed earlier work indicating that restoring pliability to the scarred vocal fold mucosa is challenging but achievable. Differences between animal models and differences in outcome measurements across studies necessitate considering each study individually to obtain guidance for future research. With increased standardization of measurement techniques it may be possible to make more inter-study comparisons.
Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin 53792, USA. bless@surgery.wisc.edu
Diane M
DM
Bless
Nathan V
NV
Welham
D000818:Animals; D002921:Cicatrix / Q000473:pathology / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000628:therapy*; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D004285:Dogs; D007818:Laryngeal Diseases / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy*; D007820:Laryngeal Mucosa / Q000187:drug effects / Q000473:pathology; D051379:Mice; D011379:Prognosis; D011817:Rabbits; D051381:Rats; D012307:Risk Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014827:Vocal Cords / Q000187:drug effects / Q000293:injuries