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Bilateral Vocal Process Avulsion: A Rare Complication of Laryngeal Trauma
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Bilateral Vocal Process Avulsion: A Rare Complication of Laryngeal Trauma

Hye Rhee Chi, Omar Ramadan and Robert T Sataloff
Ear, nose, & throat journal, Forthcoming
30 Mar 2026
PMID: 41909962
url
https://doi.org/10.1177/01455613261437283View
Published, Version of Record (VoR) Open

Abstract

vocal process avulsion bilateral vocal process avulsion laryngeal trauma dysphonia
Vocal process avulsion is a rare and often overlooked complication of laryngeal trauma, most commonly associated with endotracheal intubation. It involves detachment of the vocal process from the body of the arytenoid cartilage, leading to dysphonia, dysphagia, voice fatigue, and/or aspiration. While strobovideolaryngoscopy and laryngeal electromyography may suggest underlying structural disruption, diagnosis can be challenging when findings are subtle or imaging is inconclusive. Definitive diagnosis and management typically involves surgical evaluation and repair to restore vocal fold tension and glottic competence. We present the first documented case of bilateral vocal process avulsion following endotracheal intubation.

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