Introduction and goals:

Laryngeal nerve palsy (both superior and inferior) is a typical—but not exclusive—complication of thyroid surgery. The aim of this report is to review its epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis and up-to-date treatments.

Abstract:

In spite of being a possible thyroid surgery complication, vocal fold palsy is often poorly treated. Diagnosis, an adapted treatment to meet both expectations and reality of the patients or even the time of application are key to obtain a successful outcome that allows them to live a normal life.

Conclusions:

Contrary to what has been done to date, the precocity of the treatment is demonstrated to be a determinant in the future of vocal cord paralysis. Fast acting—beyond letting time pass by like in the past— and the just-in-time use of different techniques improves the results.

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