Transient bilateral vocal fold paralysis after total thyroidectomy.

Vocal fold paralysis is a serious complication of thyroidectomy that is worrisome for health providers and potentially disastrous for the patient and family. A 56-year-old woman presented with bilateral vocal fold paralysis immediately after routine thyroidectomy and neck dissection for a large goiter with compressive symptoms. She was extubated the next day with full recovery of vocal fold motion. We discuss possible causes of vocal fold paralysis, including surgical, metabolic and anesthetic factors.