No abstract

Objectives: The clinical determination of vocal fold (VF) hypomobility based on laryngoscopy is subjective. Previous studies point to VF motion anomaly as the most commonly reported factor in the diagnosis of hypomobility. This study tested the hypotheses that VF angular velocities and angular range of motion (ROM) differ between the two VFs in cases of unilateral VF hypomobility.Study Design: Retrospective. Methods: Semi-automated analysis of laryngoscopic videos of 18 subjects diagnosed with unilateral VF hypomobility and 13 subjects with normal VF mobility was performed to quantify/compare the VF angular velocity and ROM between the two VFs during /i/Àsniff and laugh.Results: In the hypomobile VF group, 7 out of 15 (47%) videos with /i/Àsniff and 5 out of 8 (63%) with laugh had a statistically significant difference in the angular velocities between the VFs in either abduction or adduction. For VF ROM, 8 out of 15 (53%) /i/Àsniff videos and 4 out of 8 (50%) with laughter had a statistically significant difference between VFs. In the group without the diagnosis of VF hypomobility, 9 out of 13 subjects (69%) had no difference in VF angular velocity and ROM during either /i/Àsniff or laugh.Conclusions: Differences in VF angular velocity or ROM are measurable in a substantial subset of subjects diagnosed with unilateral VF hypomobility. Clinicians' ability to gauge VF motion goes beyond what can be extracted from frame-by-frame analysis. Other visual cues, in addition to VF angular velocity and ROM, likely contribute to the perception of unilateral VF hypomobility.

Dr Byron J. Bailey, a preeminent figure in the field of Otolaryngology, exemplified an unwavering commitment to patient care, resident education, research excellence, and humanitarian endeavors throughout his illustrious career. Born in 1934, Dr Bailey played a pivotal role in the growth and success of the Department of Otolaryngology at the University of Texas Medical Branch. A dedicated educator and researcher, he authored groundbreaking research and the seminal textbook, Bailey's Head and Neck Surgery—Otolaryngology. His leadership in major organizations and commitment to research integrity and quality are hallmarks of his career. Dr Bailey's philanthropic pursuits include improving Otolaryngology care and access in Vietnam and Cuba, and local community efforts in Galveston, Texas. His enduring legacy continues to inspire future generations of Otolaryngologists, serving as a testament to the power of perseverance and dedication to excellence in the pursuit of medical education.