Vocal Fold Polyps, Cysts and Lesions

Overview and Facts about Vocal Fold Polyps

Vocal fold polyps and cysts often referred to as vocal cord lesions, are noncancerous growths that occur around or on the vocal cords.

Vocal fold polyps form on either one or both vocal cords and appear like grapes of the lining on the vocal cord.

Vocal fold cysts, on the other hand, are growths that develop underneath the lining of the vocal cords and are filled with fluid or protein debris. These lesions weaken the voice and can cause pain and discomfort.

Symptoms and Signs of Vocal Fold Polyps

This group of otolaryngology lesions can result in various symptoms. Some of the most common include the following:

The symptoms of vocal fold lesions can range from mild to severe, and they may come and go. If symptoms don’t improve within two to three weeks, medical attention should be sought.

Tests and Diagnosis of Vocal Fold Polyps

An otolaryngology specialist, a doctor who focuses on issues of the ears, nose, and throat (ENT), typically diagnoses vocal fold polyps, cysts, and lesions. The doctor will take a personal history and examines the throat and voice using a diagnostic test, which may include:

• Videostroboscopy: A flexible scope with a camera is inserted through the nose and fed into the larynx to visualize the vocal cords. A strobe light makes the vocal cords appear in slow motion and the examination is recorded. This study diagnoses and evaluates in detail the anatomy, physiology and any pathology of the vocal cords.
• Acoustic Analysis: Computer evaluation of multiple features of your voice assists in the diagnosis and treatment of your voice disorder. These measurements also serve as a way to objectively evaluate the progress that is made during and after treatments.

Causes and Risk Factors of Vocal Fold Polyps

The underlying cause of vocal fold polyps and cysts is often unknown. Some lesions may arise from traumatic use of the voice, including both overuse and misuse.

The condition could also develop from pushing the voice beyond its range or from screaming. Other vocal lesions may form during throat infections or colds since the lining of the vocal cords becomes more sensitive and prone to injury.

Treatment and Care for Vocal Fold Polyps

The course of treatment depends upon what type of vocal cord lesion is present. Often voice therapy with a specialized speech pathologist will be recommended.

Vocal fold polyps and cysts typically require surgery that removes the lesions from the vocal cords. The surgery can sometimes be performed in the office under local anesthesia with a laser, or it may need to be done in the operating room under high magnification with microscopic instruments and lasers.

To reduce symptoms and prevent recurrence, your doctor may recommend the following:

Direct microlaryngoscopy is a treatment option your doctor may recommend. High-powered microscopes, very fine microinstruments and various lasers (KTP, CO2) are used to remove masses, lesions, tumors, cancers, polyps or cysts.

This precise method minimizes damage to normal tissue while optimizing removal of diseased tissue.