[Evaluation of ventilation parameters based on flow volume loop in patients with unilateral vocal cord paralysis]

The vocal cord paralysis as a multidisciplinary problem requires commitment of different medical specialities. The diagnostic difficulties and necessity of laryngoscopic evaluation in cases suspected of vocal cord paralysis were pointed out. The analysis of ventilation parameters (flow-volume loop) was presented. The significant usefulness of inspiratory parameters, especially in upper airway obstruction was emphasized. The most useful parameters and coefficients were shown. Based on another authors data the criteria of airway obstruction classification were presented. The flow volume loop was found as a uniquely suited to the examination of upper airway obstruction. According to this examinations the unilateral vocal cord paralysis was defined as a variable extrathoracic obstruction which does not influence ventilation significantly.