Dysphonia secondary to traumatic avulsion of the vocal fold in infants

D Bray1, L Cavalli, N Eze

  • 1Department of Paediatric Otolaryngology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK. dbray@doctors.org.uk

Insights

Traumatic paediatric intubation can cause vocal fold avulsion, leading to significant voice disorders. Early and ongoing specialist voice therapy is crucial for managing these injuries in children.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Pediatric Medicine
  • Speech-Language Pathology

Background:

  • Airway compromise from pediatric intubation is known.
  • Intubation injuries can also result in severe voice disorders.

Observation:

  • Five pediatric cases of traumatic vocal fold avulsion secondary to endotracheal intubation were reported.
  • All affected children presented with significant dysphonia.

Findings:

  • Traumatic pediatric intubation can lead to vocal fold avulsion and dysphonia.
  • Specialist voice therapy is a primary management strategy.

Implications:

  • Children with traumatic intubation injuries require long-term follow-up.
  • Phonosurgical techniques may be considered for managing persistent voice issues.
Abstract

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