Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 16, 2026

Minimally Invasive Murine Laryngoscopy for Close-Up Imaging of Laryngeal Motion During Breathing and Swallowing
Published on: December 1, 2023
Paradoxical vocal cord motion--a dangerous imitator of airway emergencies
1Wesley Anaesthesia and Pain Management, Wesley Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
Abstract:
We report a case of stridor in a 32 year old woman. Initial laryngoscopy demonstrated adduction of the vocal cords on inspiration, which reverted to abduction on induction of general anaesthesia. The airway was structurally normal. The most likely diagnosis was paradoxical vocal cord motion, a condition in which psychological stress can precipitate respiratory symptoms and signs due to involuntary adduction of the vocal cords during inspiration. Its importance to the anaesthetist lies in its ability to masquerade as a serious airway or respiratory condition.
Related Concept Videos
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management
Larynx
Anatomy of the Larynx
The larynx consists of various components, including cartilage, muscles, and vocal cords. Its structure includes three large unpaired cartilages—the thyroid, cricoid, and epiglottis—and three smaller paired cartilages—the arytenoids, corniculates, and...
Suctioning the Oropharyngeal Airway
After assembling the equipment, the nurse should practice hand hygiene and don appropriate PPE according to infection control guidelines to avoid the...
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation V: Advanced Airway Management Techniques
Respiratory System Abnormal Finding II: Palpation and Auscultation
Palpation Findings
During a respiratory assessment, palpation can reveal several vital abnormalities:
Suctioning the Nasopharyngeal Airway
Equipment Required

