Respiratory Therapist

Answer: D - A flow volume loop is recommended in further diagnosing a patient with suspected vocal cord paralysis.

Vocal cord dysfunction can be characterized as an abduction of the vocal cords during respiratory cycle, especially during inspiratory phase that produces an airflow obstruction at the level of the larynx. Flow volume loop obtained during symptomatic period will show a limitation of the inspiratory flow (flattened loop). Further diagnosis of the disorder would be confirmed via laryngoscopy.