Arytenoid dislocation and computed tomography

Abstract

The insertion of endotracheal tubes is surprisingly free of laryngeal complications. Although the exact incidence of endotracheal tube-induced laryngeal trauma is unknown, recent reports of arytenoid dislocations have led to an increased awareness of the possibility for this type of laryngeal injury. Since indirect examination of the larynx in a postoperative patient is not always an easy procedure, the use of a computed tomographic (CT) scan may provide help in making the diagnosis of arytenoid dislocation and in confirming the return of the arytenoid to its usual position following endoscopic manipulation. A 27-year-old man had a weak voice following an atraumatic intubation. A scan done on a body scanner without contrast revealed a right arytenoid dislocation. Following laryngoscopic manipulation, an improved position of the arytenoid was confirmed by a subsequent CT scan done in the same manner. The use of this noninvasive technique may be an additional aid in the diagnosis of laryngeal disorders following intubation.