Vocal cord paralysis
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Synopsis
In adults, vocal cord paralysis may present as dysphonia, hoarseness, dysphagia, and conversational dyspnea. Infants and children may present with weak cry, stridor, cough, hoarseness, and respiratory insufficiency. Neonates can rarely develop vocal cord paralysis secondary to nerve damage during delivery.
Treatment and prognosis for recovery depend on cause and time from onset as some underlying etiologies can recover spontaneously while others are permanent. Bilateral vocal cord paralysis results in stridor and airway compromise. These patients will often require re-intubation and consideration of a surgical tracheostomy for airway safety.
Codes
J38.00 – Paralysis of vocal cords and larynx, unspecified
SNOMEDCT:
302912005 – Vocal cord palsy
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Last Updated:10/17/2021