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Recommendations on follow-up strategies for idiopathic vocal fold paralysis: evidence-based review

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  19 April 2012

A Tsikoudas ,
V Paleri ,
M Reda El-Badawey  and
I Zammit-Maempel
A Tsikoudas*
Affiliation:
Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle, UK
V Paleri
Affiliation:
Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle, UK
M Reda El-Badawey
Affiliation:
Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle, UK
I Zammit-Maempel
Affiliation:
Department of Radiology, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle, UK
*
Address for correspondence: Mr Alexandros Tsikoudas, Consultant ENT Surgeon (locum), Freeman Hospital, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Freeman Road, High Heaton, Newcastle NE7 7DN, UK E-mail: atsikoudas@nhs.net
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Abstract

Introduction:

Vocal fold paralysis can be an early warning sign of serious extra-laryngeal pathology. Even if imaging investigations show no pathology, there is always concern about the emergence of new pathology in the future. There is currently no consensus on the best follow-up protocol for vocal fold paralysis patients with no abnormalities on investigation.

Methods:

Systematic review, using an Ovid and Medline database search of papers written in the English language and published in the last 20 years.

Results:

Eight relevant studies were identified. Not all of them were directly comparable. A narrative review of the studies is presented and conclusions are drawn.

Conclusion:

Current diagnostic modalities are sufficiently reliable and sensitive to diagnose any significant existing extra-laryngeal pathology. Thus, once initial investigation (including computed tomography) has concluded, no further follow up is necessary.

Keywords

Vocal Cord ParalysisDiagnosisDuty To Follow Up
Type
Review Articles
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 126 , Issue 6 , June 2012 , pp. 570 - 573
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 2012

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