Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 10, 2026

Single-stage Dynamic Reanimation of the Smile in Irreversible Facial Paralysis by Free Functional Muscle Transfer
19:53

Single-stage Dynamic Reanimation of the Smile in Irreversible Facial Paralysis by Free Functional Muscle Transfer

Published on: March 1, 2015

Pediatric vocal fold paralysis after cardiac surgery: rate of recovery and sequelae

Mai Thy Truong1, Anna H Messner, Joseph E Kerschner

  • 1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA 94305-5328, USA. mttruong@stanford.edu

Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery : Official Journal of American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
|October 31, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Pediatric vocal fold paralysis (VFP) after heart surgery has a 35% recovery rate. Many children experience persistent VFP, leading to aspiration and surgical interventions for airway and feeding issues.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Otolaryngology
  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Pediatric Critical Care

Background:

  • Vocal fold paralysis (VFP) is a potential complication following pediatric cardiac surgery.
  • The long-term outcomes and recovery rates of VFP in this population are not well-established.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the recovery rate of pediatric vocal fold paralysis (VFP) after cardiac surgery.
  • To identify the incidence of sequelae such as aspiration and the need for surgical intervention.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective case series conducted across four tertiary care pediatric hospitals.
  • Data collected from January 2000 to December 2005, identifying 109 children with VFP post-cardiac surgery.

Main Results:

  • Of 80 patients with over 3 months follow-up, 35% (28/80) showed vocal fold function recovery.
  • 65% (52/80) experienced persistent VFP. 45% (25/55) demonstrated aspiration or laryngeal penetration.
  • 27% (29/109) required surgical intervention for airway, feeding, or voice concerns.

Conclusions:

  • Pediatric VFP is a significant complication of cardiac surgery with a notable recovery rate of 35%.
  • A substantial proportion of affected children face persistent paralysis, aspiration, and require surgical management.
  • Early identification and management are crucial for addressing the serious sequelae of VFP in this cohort.
Abstract

More Related Videos

Minimally Invasive Murine Laryngoscopy for Close-Up Imaging of Laryngeal Motion During Breathing and Swallowing07:45

Minimally Invasive Murine Laryngoscopy for Close-Up Imaging of Laryngeal Motion During Breathing and Swallowing

Published on: December 1, 2023

Related Concept Videos

Cardiomyopathy VII: Pre and Post Operative Nursing Management01:28

Cardiomyopathy VII: Pre and Post Operative Nursing Management

Patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction who remain symptomatic despite optimal medical therapy may undergo a septal myectomy (Morrow procedure). This procedure involves excising a portion of the hypertrophied septum below the aortic valve using a heart-lung machine to improve blood flow through the LVOT. Effective preoperative and postoperative nursing management ensures successful patient outcomes, minimizes complications, and...
Esophageal Perforation-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management01:28

Esophageal Perforation-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management

Esophageal perforations manifest in various clinical forms, influenced by factors such as the perforation's cause and location (cervical, intrathoracic, or intra-abdominal), the extent of contamination, and potential injury to adjacent mediastinal structures. The timing between the perforation occurrence and treatment initiation also affects the clinical presentation.
Clinical Manifestations:
Flail Chest-II01:26

Flail Chest-II

Managing flail chest, a condition characterized by a segment of the chest wall moving independently from the rest of the thoracic cage, requires a comprehensive approach. It includes a thorough assessment of the patient's condition, a diagnostic evaluation to determine the extent of the injury, and the implementation of appropriate medical interventions tailored to the individual's needs.
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History:
Pneumothorax-II01:27

Pneumothorax-II

Pneumothorax is a medical condition defined by the buildup of air in the pleural space between the lungs and the chest wall. This accumulation of air can lead to partial or complete lung collapse, resulting in a range of clinical manifestations. Understanding the clinical presentation and effective management strategies is crucial for healthcare professionals in providing timely and appropriate care to individuals with pneumothorax.
Clinical Manifestations:
Tracheostomy Decannulation01:21

Tracheostomy Decannulation

Tracheostomy decannulation is a significant milestone in the liberation of mechanically ventilated patients. Despite its importance, there is no universally accepted protocol for this procedure. This demands an evidence-based, individualized approach.
Description of the Procedure
Decannulation refers to the permanent removal of the tracheostomy tube, signaling the resolution of the condition that initially necessitated the tracheostomy. The process requires a well-coordinated interplay between...
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management01:22

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management

Airway management is a key skill in emergency and critical care settings, as maintaining a clear airway is essential for adequate oxygenation and ventilation.Head Tilt-Chin Lift TechniqueThe head tilt-chin lift maneuver is an essential technique primarily used in patients without suspected cervical spine injuries. To perform this maneuver, one hand is placed on the patient’s forehead, and gentle pressure is applied backward to tilt the head. The fingertips of the other hand are positioned under...