Related Experiment Videos
Vocal cord paralysis in children
D F Rosin1, S D Handler, W P Potsic
1Division of Otolaryngology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, PA 19104.
Insights
Bilateral vocal cord paralysis, a common cause of infant stridor, differs significantly from adults. This study reviews 51 pediatric cases, emphasizing flexible endoscopic evaluation and conservative management for vocal cord paralysis.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Otolaryngology
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Pediatric Neurology
Background:
- Bilateral vocal cord paralysis is a frequent cause of stridor in infants and children.
- Pediatric vocal cord paralysis presents distinct etiological, diagnostic, and management challenges compared to adults.
- Understanding these differences is crucial for effective clinical care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review a decade of experience with vocal cord paralysis in children at a major pediatric hospital.
- To analyze the etiology, diagnostic delays, and management strategies for pediatric vocal cord paralysis.
- To establish evidence-based guidelines for the management of vocal cord paralysis in pediatric patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 51 pediatric cases diagnosed with vocal cord paralysis over 10 years.
- Evaluation of etiological factors, laterality (unilateral vs. bilateral), diagnostic timelines, and voice abnormalities.
- Assessment of tracheotomy requirements, surgical interventions, and patient outcomes.
Main Results:
- Analysis of 51 pediatric cases revealed specific etiological patterns and diagnostic considerations.
- The study identified factors influencing the need for tracheotomy and surgical treatment.
- Outcomes were evaluated in relation to management approaches, highlighting the effectiveness of conservative strategies.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric vocal cord paralysis requires a distinct approach compared to adult cases.
- Flexible endoscopic evaluation is recommended for diagnosis.
- Conservative management strategies should be prioritized for children with vocal cord paralysis, reserving surgical intervention for specific indications.
Abstract:
Bilateral vocal cord paralysis is a common cause of stridor in infants and children. There are significant differences in this entity between children and adults with regard to etiology, diagnosis, management, and outcome. A review of 10 years' experience at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia identified 51 children seen with the diagnosis of vocal cord paralysis. These cases were evaluated with respect to etiology of paralysis, whether unilateral or bilateral, delay in diagnosis, need for tracheotomy, abnormality of voice, surgical treatment, and outcome. Guidelines for management for a child with vocal cord paralysis are presented with emphasis on flexible endoscopic evaluation and conservative management.