Transcutaneous Ultrasound Offers Hope for Vocal Cord Paralysis Diagnosis

Transcutaneous laryngeal ultrasound shows promise in detecting vocal cord paralysis after esophagectomy, crucial for surgical outcomes.

• Pooled sensitivity of 79% and specificity of 95% highlight its potential as a diagnostic tool.
• Vocal cord visualization achieved rates of 92.3%, with a 29% incidence of vocal cord paralysis post-surgery.

Consider this tool for assessing high-risk patients, but be aware of a notable 20% false-negative rate.

• Further multicenter studies are essential to enhance detection protocols, especially in elderly patients.