title: Ultrasound assessment of vocal fold paresis: a correlation case series with flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopy and adding the third dimension (3-D) to vocal fold mobility assessment.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Perioperative examination ofthe vocal folds with flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopy is not always feasible. Prior studies suggest vocal fold ultrasound may provide a useful screening tool, however, correlation to laryngoscopic findings is necessary. The purpose of the case series was to validate vocal fold ultrasound in the adult population and to correlate the ultrasound findings to the assessment provided by flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopy.
  
  
  METHODS
  This IRB approved study accrued sixteen patients. Vocal fold ultrasound performed by the anesthesiologist was correlated with the laryngoscopy performed by the otolaryngologist.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Assessment of vocal fold motion was congruent in thirteen patients with normal vocal fold mobility; however, there was discordance between the findings in three patients.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Vocal fold ultrasound may be useful to screen for vocal fold motion abnormalities in the adult population. Abnormal findings on vocal fold ultrasound should be confirmed with subsequent laryngoscopy.
authors: Department of Anesthesiology, Wayne State University, UHC 4J, Room 30, 4201 St. Antoine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA. ydnar6@yahoo.com
authors: Randall J
authors: RJ
authors: Amis
authors: Deepak
authors: D
authors: Gupta
authors: Jayme R
authors: JR
authors: Dowdall
authors: Arvind
authors: A
authors: Srirajakalindini
authors: Adam
authors: A
authors: Folbe
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005336:Fiber Optic Technology; D006801:Humans; D007828:Laryngoscopy / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D014463:Ultrasonography; D014826:Vocal Cord Paralysis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000473:pathology; D014827:Vocal Cords / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000473:pathology