title: Vocal fold immobility after finger sweep self-extrusion of impacted food in a choking victim with resolution following laryngeal mask ventilation.
abstract: We report a case of unilateral vocal fold immobility in a 57-year-old woman that occurred subsequent to a choking episode, which she resolved by removing impacted food with a finger sweep. Other than the unilateral immobility, no abnormality of the laryngeal mucosa or framework was detected on physical examination, laryngoscopy, and computed tomography. Weeks later, the patient underwent an unrelated surgical procedure necessitating laryngeal mask airway ventilation. When she emerged from the procedure, she noted full resolution of her voice symptoms. Office laryngoscopy confirmed the full return of vocal fold function. We discuss possible explanations for the return of function in the context of this unusual onset and resolution. We also review the literature regarding unilateral vocal fold immobility, including its etiology, presentation, workup, and treatment.
authors.affiliation: NYU Voice Center, 345 E. 37th St., Suite 306, New York, NY 10016, USA.
authors.forename: Shaum
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Sridharan
authors.forename: Milan R
authors.initials: MR
authors.lastname: Amin
authors.forename: Ryan C
authors.initials: RC
authors.lastname: Branski
mesh_terms: D000402:Airway Obstruction / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D017214:Laryngeal Masks; D007828:Laryngoscopy; D008875:Middle Aged; D063087:Noninvasive Ventilation; D014826:Vocal Cord Paralysis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology; D014827:Vocal Cords / Q000293:injuries*