Postintubation interarytenoid adhesion

Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol. 2000 Aug;109(8 Pt 1):736-40. doi: 10.1177/000348940010900807.

Abstract

Interarytenoid fibrous adhesion is a poorly recognized complication of intubation and is frequently confused with bilateral vocal cord paralysis. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential for optimal management. Otolaryngologists should constantly remain alert for interarytenoid fibrous scar to establish the diagnosis as early as possible, optimizing the probability of restoring normal breathing and quality of life and avoiding an unnecessary tracheotomy. Surgical laser reduction is appropriate in all cases when other miscellaneous laryngeal injury lesions are eliminated. Direct laryngoscopy with careful examination of the posterior commissure and laryngeal electromyography are the 2 main clinical diagnostic aids contributing to establish the diagnosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Arytenoid Cartilage*
  • Cartilage Diseases / diagnosis
  • Cartilage Diseases / etiology*
  • Cartilage Diseases / pathology
  • Cartilage Diseases / physiopathology
  • Cartilage Diseases / surgery
  • Child, Preschool
  • Electromyography
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Intubation, Intratracheal / adverse effects*
  • Laryngeal Muscles / physiopathology
  • Laryngoscopy
  • Male
  • Tissue Adhesions / diagnosis
  • Tissue Adhesions / etiology
  • Tissue Adhesions / pathology
  • Tissue Adhesions / physiopathology
  • Tissue Adhesions / surgery