Medialisation thyroplasty for unilateral vocal fold paralysis associated with chronic pulmonary tuberculosis

Paul KY Lam, William I Wei
Division of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Hong Kong Medical Centre, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong

Improved hygiene and public awareness have led to a steady decline in the incidence of pulmonary tuberculosis in developed countries. Nonetheless, long-term sequelae like unilateral vocal fold paralysis should not be underestimated in a modern society. We report three patients with chronic lung fibrosis following pulmonary tuberculosis leading to unilateral vocal fold paralysis. All three patients had hoarseness and chronic aspiration on swallowing. Early diagnosis and prompt surgical intervention are essential if this potentially fatal complication is to be prevented.

Hong Kong Med J 2007;13:327-9

Key words: Tuberculosis, pulmonary; Vocal fold paralysis