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Cricothyroid muscle paralysis: its recognition and diagnosis

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 June 2007

K. Bevan ,
M. V. Griffiths  and
M. H. Morgan
K. Bevan*
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology and Clinical Neurophysiology, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol BS2 8HW
M. V. Griffiths
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology and Clinical Neurophysiology, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol BS2 8HW
M. H. Morgan
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology and Clinical Neurophysiology, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol BS2 8HW
*
K. Bevan, F.R.C.S., 70 Swallow Park, Thornbury, Bristol BS12 1LU
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Abstract

Cricothyroid muscle paralysis is often missed as the symptoms are not dramatic and the laryngeal observations, on conventional indirect mirror examination, are inconclusive. The anatomy and physiology of the superior laryngeal nerve (SLN) and cricothyroid muscle are described. Three case reports are presented to illustrate our diagnostic techniques. Videofibrolaryngoscopy and electromyography are found to be invaluable tools for the diagnosis of this condition. The importance in diagnosing this entity is discussed.

Type
Main Articles
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 103 , Issue 2 , February 1989 , pp. 191 - 195
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 1989

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