There are two nerves attached to the larynx (voice box). If either nerve is damaged, the patient may lose his or her voice or have trouble breathing.
Alternative Names:
Vocal cord paralysis
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Injury to the laryngeal nerves is uncommon. However, it may occur:
As a complication of surgery in the neck or chest, especially thyroid, lung, or heart surgery
While placing a breathing tube in the windpipe (endotracheal tube) or while positioning the head and neck prior to placing such a tube
From tumors in the neck or upper chest, such as thyroid or lung cancers
Review Date: 10/25/2004
Reviewed By: Kevin Fung, MD, FRCS(C), Department of Otolaryngology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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