Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 21, 2025

09:58
Investigating the Three-dimensional Flow Separation Induced by a Model Vocal Fold Polyp
Published on: February 3, 2014
8.7K
Paradoxical Vocal Fold Movement: A Retrospective Analysis.
Dylan Vance1, Cameron Heyd2, Matthew Pier1
1Drexel University College of Medicine.
Summary
Paradoxical vocal fold motion (PVFM) is a rare disorder causing breathing difficulties. A combination of botulinum toxin, voice therapy, and reflux treatment significantly improved patient symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Laryngology
- Respiratory Medicine
- Speech-Language Pathology
Background:
- Paradoxical vocal fold motion (PVFM) involves inappropriate vocal fold closure during inhalation, leading to episodic dyspnea.
- Diagnosis requires a comprehensive evaluation including history, physical exam, laryngoscopy with provocative maneuvers, and laryngeal electromyography.
- The exact pathogenesis and clinical presentation of PVFM remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize patients diagnosed with PVFM.
- To assess the effectiveness of current therapeutic interventions for PVFM.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective chart review was conducted on 40 PVFM patients from January 2007 to August 2019.
- Data analyzed included comorbidities, lab tests, imaging, 24-hour pH impedance testing, and laryngeal EMG.
- The Dyspnea Index questionnaire was used pre- and post-treatment to evaluate efficacy.
Main Results:
- The study cohort averaged 30.25 years, with 45% under 18 and 80% female. Serious athletes and students comprised 25% and 40%, respectively.
- Comorbidities included asthma (65%) and psychiatric diagnoses (33%). No family history of PVFM was noted.
- A regimen of botulinum toxin, voice therapy (VT), and laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) treatment yielded a 90% subjective improvement rate.
Conclusions:
- The combination of botulinum toxin, VT, and LPR treatment is the most effective management strategy for PVFM currently.
- Further research is necessary to elucidate the underlying etiology of paradoxical vocal fold motion disorder.
Related Concept Videos
Larynx
3.7K
The human larynx, often referred to as the voice box, is an intricate organ located in the neck. It serves as a pathway for air to enter the lungs during respiration and is an essential component of voice production.
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,...
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,...
3.7K
Respiratory System Abnormal Finding II: Palpation and Auscultation
1.2K
In assessing respiratory abnormalities, palpation and auscultation are critical tools for detecting and interpreting various pathophysiological changes. These techniques provide insight into underlying disorders by evaluating tactile sensations and sounds produced by the respiratory system.
Palpation Findings
During a respiratory assessment, palpation can reveal several vital abnormalities:
Palpation Findings
During a respiratory assessment, palpation can reveal several vital abnormalities:
1.2K
Facial Feedback Hypothesis
471
Charles Darwin proposed that facial expressions are an evolutionary adaptation for communication. He argued that these expressions are not influenced by culture but are universal across species. For example, a snarling expression with exposed teeth signals a threat in many animals, including humans. Darwin also suggested that displaying an emotion can intensify the feeling. Smiling, for example, could enhance one's sense of happiness. This idea laid the foundation for understanding the role...
471
Mechanism of Breathing III: The Accessory Muscles
3.8K
The Role of Accessory Muscles in the Respiratory System
The respiratory system is a complex network that relies on primary respiratory muscles like the diaphragm, but also involves accessory muscles to enhance lung expansion and airflow during both inhalation and exhalation.
Enhancing Inhalation with Accessory Muscles:
Accessory muscles such as the sternocleidomastoid, scalene, intercostal, and abdominal muscles are crucial when additional respiratory effort is required, such as during deep...
The respiratory system is a complex network that relies on primary respiratory muscles like the diaphragm, but also involves accessory muscles to enhance lung expansion and airflow during both inhalation and exhalation.
Enhancing Inhalation with Accessory Muscles:
Accessory muscles such as the sternocleidomastoid, scalene, intercostal, and abdominal muscles are crucial when additional respiratory effort is required, such as during deep...
3.8K
Suctioning the Oropharyngeal Airway
655
In preparing for oropharyngeal airway suctioning, a nurse must gather all necessary equipment, including a suction unit with tubing, a prepackaged suction kit, sterile gloves, water or saline for irrigation, a water-soluble lubricant, and additional personal protective equipment (such as a gown, mask, and goggles) to control infections.
After assembling the equipment, the nurse should practice hand hygiene and don appropriate PPE according to infection control guidelines to avoid the...
After assembling the equipment, the nurse should practice hand hygiene and don appropriate PPE according to infection control guidelines to avoid the...
655
Assessment of Ventilation II: Respiratory Depth and Rhythm
2.3K
Respiratory Depth
Respiratory depth measures the volume of air inhaled or exhaled during a breath. It can vary from shallow to deep and typically remains consistent when a person is at rest or asleep. Occasionally, individuals will automatically inhale deeply, known as sighing, which inflates the lungs with more air than normal breathing.
To assess respiratory depth, observe the degree of chest excursion or movement:
Respiratory depth measures the volume of air inhaled or exhaled during a breath. It can vary from shallow to deep and typically remains consistent when a person is at rest or asleep. Occasionally, individuals will automatically inhale deeply, known as sighing, which inflates the lungs with more air than normal breathing.
To assess respiratory depth, observe the degree of chest excursion or movement:
2.3K

