Diagnostic Accuracy of Translaryngeal Ultrasound Compared with Videolaryngoscopy for Assessment of Vocal Cord Movement in Post-Thyroidectomy Patients

Brief Summary

This study aims to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of translaryngeal ultrasound compared with videolaryngoscopy for assessing vocal cord movement in patients after thyroidectomy. Vocal cord dysfunction due to recurrent laryngeal nerve injury is a known complication of thyroid surgery, and early detection is important to prevent airway and voice-related problems. Traditionally, videolaryngoscopy is used for assessment but it is invasive and may cause hemodynamic changes. Translaryngeal ultrasound is a simple, safe, and non-invasive alternative. In this diagnostic accuracy study, 82 adult patients undergoing elective thyroidectomy under general anaesthesia will be assessed for vocal cord movement using both techniques. The results will compare accuracy, time taken, and hemodynamic response between the two methods. The study aims to identify whether ultrasound can serve as a reliable bedside tool for postoperative vocal cord assessment.