The Best Modality to Assess Vocal Fold Mobility in Children: Flexible Fiberoptic Laryngoscopy or Ultrasound?

Comparison of the diagnostic and prognostic abilities of flexible laryngoscopy and dynamic digital radiography for vocal cord paralysis: A prospective observational study

“…In recent years, several studies have demonstrated the usefulness of ultrasound for evaluating vocal cords of children. 22,23 The ultrasound examination is better tolerated than FL by children, but this is dependent on the skills of the physician performing the examination. Furthermore, bilateral VCP has been reported to be difficult to evaluate by ultrasound examination.…”

“…The advantages of DDR, such as the absence of pain, ease of use by non‐otolaryngologists, and absence of the risk of droplet infection, are expected to increase its use in clinical settings. In recent years, several studies have demonstrated the usefulness of ultrasound for evaluating vocal cords of children 22,23 . The ultrasound examination is better tolerated than FL by children, but this is dependent on the skills of the physician performing the examination.…”

Laryngeal ultrasound for evaluation of paediatric unilateral vocal fold immobility -- a retrospective cohort study in Aotearoa New Zealand and a survey of clinicians around the world

“…Parallel to that, the presence of secretions, floppy supraglottic structures and suboptimal views pose a challenge in making an accurate diagnosis, even in the hands of experienced paediatric otolaryngologists (5). In children younger than 3 years, non-diagnostic AFL has been reported in up to 20% of cases due to difficulty in visualising the larynx (4,6). Furthermore, patient motion due to the uncomfortable nature of AFL may result in mucosal trauma and airway swelling.…”