Thyroarytenoid Muscle Avulsion

Abstract

Thyroarytenoid muscle avulsion is a rare condition in which laryngeal trauma causes a separation of the thyroarytenoid muscle from the arytenoid cartilage. Typically, symptoms are nonspecific but include severe dysphonia and voice fatigue. They are similar to symptoms of vocal process avulsion. Strobovideolaryngoscopy, laryngeal electromyography, and laryngeal computed tomography may be helpful in diagnosis. However, intraoperative palpation under general anesthesia is the most definitive way to establish its diagnosis. We present two cases of thyroarytenoid muscle avulsion, a condition that has not been described previously. Surgical techniques for repair are detailed.