Abstract

The vocal cords were evaluated sonographically using 7.5 MHz linear and sector probes. The true vocal cords were viewed as hypoechogenic structures while the pseudovocal cords were hyperechogenic. The symmetric movements of the vocal cords during regular breathing can be shown in real time scanning. The fact that 13 out of 14 patients below 40 years of age could be studied adequately while in 7 out of 16 above 40 years of age dependent satisfactory was attributed to the age dependent calcification of the thyroid cartilage. Thus it is apparent that sonography is a useful diagnostic modality for the imaging of the vocal cords especially below age of 40