title: Dynamic 320-slice CT larynx for detection and management of idiopathic bilateral vocal cord paralysis.
abstract: Idiopathic bilateral vocal cord paralysis (VCP) is a rare and difficult condition often undiagnosed and frequently confused with asthma and other respiratory conditions. Accurate diagnosis is crucial since 80% of cases patients require surgical intervention, such as tracheostomy or laser surgery, to relieve symptoms. The "gold standard" for diagnosing VCP has been laryngoscopy. In this case study, we demonstrate for the first time that idiopathic bilateral VCP can be accurately diagnosed by means of a novel noninvasive methodology: dynamic volume 320-slice computed tomography larynx. Three-dimensional reconstruction of laryngeal motion during the breathing cycle permitted functional assessment of the larynx showing absence of vocal cord movements. The new methodology may be valuable for noninvasive diagnosis of vocal cord movement disorders before and for follow-up after surgery.
authors.affiliation: Department of Monash Lung & Sleep, Monash Health Melbourne, Australia.
authors.forename: Laurence E
authors.initials: LE
authors.lastname: Ruane
authors.affiliation: Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Monash Health Melbourne, Australia.
authors.forename: Kenneth K
authors.initials: KK
authors.lastname: Lau
authors.affiliation: Department of Monash Lung & Sleep, Monash Health Melbourne, Australia.
authors.forename: Kathy
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Low
authors.affiliation: Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Monash Health Melbourne, Australia.
authors.forename: Marcus
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Crossett
authors.affiliation: Department of Ear, Nose and Throat Surgery, Monash Health Melbourne, Australia.
authors.forename: Neil
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Vallance
authors.affiliation: Department of Monash Lung & Sleep, Monash Health Melbourne, Australia ; Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University Melbourne, Australia.
authors.forename: Philip G
authors.initials: PG
authors.lastname: Bardin
keywords: 320-slice computed tomography; arytenoidectomy; diagnosis; noninvasive