Learning objectives
- Describe the normal anatomy and dynamic study of the larynx using high-resolution ultrasound (US).
- Define the limitations and main indications of ultrasonography in the study of the larynx.
Background
US is an effective mean of assessing soft tissue anatomy of the neck.
Because of its high spatial resolution,
it constitutes nowadays the modality of election in most of neck soft tissue pathology.
Unlike Magnetic Ressonance (MR) and Computed Tomography (CT),
US possesses the advantage of assessing dynamic function,
such as vocal fold motion.
We have found few references about sonographic evaluation of the larynx and will try to do a review of the normal sonographic anatomy and dynamic study of the larynx.
Findings and procedure details
A) Position of the patient and technical considerations:
Patients should be placed in supine position with the patient's head reclined (Figure 1).
Broadband transducers with a high frequency,
up to 18MHz were used.
It is advised to use probes with a maximum resolution and sufficient penetration.
Ultrasound has a relatively good view of the different structures of the larynx,
allowing an excellent assessment of cervical soft tissue and of the vocal cords.
A possible exception to this rule involves older men,
whose thyroid cartilage morphology...
Conclusion
Laryngeal US is asimple,
cheap,
non-invasive,
easily available tool with no radiation exposure that can have acomplementary role in the algorithm of laryngeal study,
adding information in laryngeal cancer workup and as an alternative to flexible fibreopticlaryngoscopy in the study of vocal cordsto reduce the unnecessary discomfort associated to laryngoscopy or when the patient is uncooperative.
References
Hertzberg BS,
Middleton WD.
“Ultrasound - The Requisites.
3rd edition.” Elsevier 2016.
Koch B,
Hamilton BE,
Hudgins P,
Harnsberger HR.
“Diagnostic Imaging: Head andNeck”.
3rd Edition.
Elsevier 2016.
Maheer M.
Masood,
Benjamin Huang,
Allie Goins,
Trevor G.
Hackman.
“Anatomic factors affecting the use of ultrasound to predict vocal foldmotion: A pilot study”.Am J Otolaryngol 39 (2018) 413–417
Hung TY,
Li S,
Chen PS,
Wu LT,
Yang YJ,
Tseng LM,
Chen KC,
Wang TL.
Bedside ultrasonography as a safe and effective tool to diagnose acute epiglottitis....