What is Unilateral Vocal Fold Paralysis?

Unilateral vocal fold paralysis arises from damage to the recurrent laryngeal nerve causing immobility to one of the vocal folds. Damage to the recurrent laryngeal nerve can result from injury during surgery, external trauma, infection, neurological disease or tumour development. In some cases the cause of unilateral vocal fold paralysis is unknown.

Treatment

Voice therapy is the recommended treatment approach for vocal fold paralysis. Surgery may be recommended if the paralysis is severe or following a period of voice therapy where little or no improvement in voice has occurred. In cases where surgery is required, pre-operative and post-operative voice therapy is recommended. In some cases, nerve function returns spontaneously without treatment. This process may take up to six months to one year.  ​​

For more information on voice therapy please visit our voice therapy page. ​If you are looking for voice therapy treatment of unilateral vocal fold paralysis please contact us to book an appointment with our Speech Pathologist.