Laryngeal Findings in Superior Laryngeal Nerve Paralysis: A Controversy

Abstract

The diagnosis of superior laryngeal nerve paralysis is infrequently made because of disagreement concerning the laryngeal findings in unilateral cricothyroid muscle dysfunction. Results of experimental unilateral superior laryngeal nerve paralysis in dogs and humans are shown with a review of the literature. The findings are documented by electromyographic studies and laryngeal photographs, and serve to clarify aspects of the functional anatomy of the cricothyroid muscle and the cricoid and thyroid cartilages.