Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 1, 2025

A Novel Rescue Technique for Difficult Intubation and Difficult Ventilation
Published on: January 17, 2011
Paradoxical vocal fold motion masquerading as post-anesthetic respiratory distress: A case report
Jongyoon Baek1, Dae-Lim Jee1, Yoon Seok Choi2
1Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, Daegu 42415, South Korea.
Background:
Functional vocal cord disorders can be a differential diagnosis for postoperative upper airway obstruction requiring urgent intervention. However, this may be unfamiliar to anesthesiologists who would favor inappropriate airway intervention and increased morbidity.
Case Summary:
A 61-year-old woman underwent cervical laminectomy, followed by laparoscopic cholecystectomy 10 mo later. Despite adequate reversal of neuromuscular blockade, the patient experienced repetitive respiratory difficulty with inspiratory stridor after extubation. After the second operation, the patient was diagnosed with paradoxical vocal fold motion (PVFM) by an otolaryngologist based on the clinical features and fiberoptic bronchoscopy results, and the patient was successfully treated.
Conclusion:
PVFM should be considered a differential diagnosis if a patient presents with stridor after general anesthesia.
Related Concept Videos
Acute Respiratory Failure-III
Acute Respiratory Failure-IV
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management
Respiratory System Abnormal Finding II: Palpation and Auscultation
Palpation Findings
During a respiratory assessment, palpation can reveal several vital abnormalities:
Respiratory System Abnormal Finding I: Inspection and Percussion
Inspection Findings
During an inspection, several findings may suggest the presence of respiratory distress or disease. Pursed-lip breathing, where exhalation is slowed by...
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation V: Advanced Airway Management Techniques

