[Laryngeal immobility after thyroidectomy]

Ann Chir. 2001 Mar;126(2):104-10. doi: 10.1016/s0003-3944(00)00488-0.
[Article in French]

Abstract

One of the most common complications of surgery of the thyroid gland is vocal folds immobility. New advances in its management have been achieved over the last few years. Laryngeal electromyography, stroboscopy, and computerized analysis of the voice help guide diagnosis, allowing differentiation between recurrent nerve paralysis and glottis traumatism due to intubation, and further follow-up of recovery with relevant therapeutic decisions. In case of unilateral vocal fold paralysis, intrafold silicone or injection of autologous fat is more and more routinely used to obtain vocal rehabilitation. In case of bilateral vocal fold paralysis, to avoid tracheotomy, partial posterior cordectomy using laser surgery restores sufficient laryngeal airflow, with minimal vocal sequelae. Early management of these complications by teams of specialists should allow appropriate and less invasive surgery.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Dyspnea / etiology
  • Dyspnea / therapy
  • Electromyography
  • Emergencies
  • Glottis / injuries
  • Humans
  • Laryngoscopy
  • Polytetrafluoroethylene / administration & dosage
  • Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve*
  • Silicones / administration & dosage
  • Thyroidectomy / adverse effects*
  • Vocal Cord Paralysis / diagnosis
  • Vocal Cord Paralysis / etiology*
  • Vocal Cord Paralysis / surgery
  • Voice Disorders / diagnosis
  • Voice Disorders / etiology
  • Voice Disorders / rehabilitation

Substances

  • Silicones
  • Polytetrafluoroethylene