Description
The vocal cords are located in the larynx and vibrate to produce sounds. They also prevent food from entering the airway during swallowing. There are two cords. If both become paralyzed and remain in the closed position, the airway can become obstructed. This requires emergent treatment. If only one is weakened patients have more problems with speech. Reasons for this disorder include: direct trauma to the cords, chest or neck surgery with an injury to the nerve supplying the cords, multiple sclerosis, stroke, and tumors.
Symptoms
Hoarseness, difficulty speaking, difficulty swallowing. Airway obstruction can occur if both cords become paralyzed in the closed position.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. The diagnosis is made by directly examining the vocal cords with a fiber optic scope (laryngoscopy).
Tests:
CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Other Specific Tests: Laryngoscopy, bronchoscopy
Specialists:
Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT), Pediatric ENT (Otolaryngology)
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. The diagnosis is made by directly examining the vocal cords with a fiber optic scope (laryngoscopy).
Tests:
CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Other Specific Tests: Laryngoscopy, bronchoscopy
Specialists:
Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT), Pediatric ENT (Otolaryngology)
Treatment
Therapy depends on the cause and severity of the vocal cord paralysis. Treatment may include: observation, speech therapy, and/or surgery. In acute cases of bilateral vocal cord paralysis an emergent tracheotomy may need to be done to allow for breathing.