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Updated: Jun 29, 2026

Investigating the Three-dimensional Flow Separation Induced by a Model Vocal Fold Polyp
Published on: February 3, 2014
Differential diagnosis of paradoxical vocal fold movement
Jamie A Koufman1, Christie Block
1Voice Institute of New York, 200 West 57th Street, Suite 1203, New York, NY 10019, USA. jamie@voiceinstituteny.com
Purpose:
To present the differential diagnosis of paradoxical vocal fold movement (PVFM) and its distinguishing features.
Methods:
The authors provide an overview of PVFM by drawing from 30 years of clinical and research experience, and relating that experience to literature in this area.
Conclusion:
PVFM is characterized by inappropriate adduction of the vocal folds during inspiration. PVFM is an uncommon and sometimes confusing cause of airway obstruction. The resultant obstruction may be intermittent or continuous, mild or severe. Most patients with PVFM have a specific etiology--inflammatory, neurological, neoplastic, iatrogenic, or psychological--that influences type of treatment and outcome.
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