Vocal Cord Surgery

The vocal cords in the laryngeal cavity consist of two stretched mucous membranes lying horizontally within the cartilage structure. The vocal cords vibrate in different patterns to produce sound. It is important to protect the vocal cords, which determine the loudness of the voice, against injury. Because the sound is healthy, it also affects the sound quality. In addition, while the vocal cords collide with each other, forcing the voice may cause tissue deterioration, irritation and inflammation in the vocal cords due to friction over time. Using the voice at high volume and incorrectly over a long period of time can cause distortion of the vocal cords. Tissue disruptions in the vocal cord are called vocal cord nodules.

Vocal Cord Nodules

Since vocal cord nodules are caused by the mutual collision of the vocal cords, they are usually seen in both vocal cords. Under microscopic examination, vocal cord nodules resemble calluses. They may also be called a singer's nodule or a singer's knot.

Being in environments that require loud speech or heavy smoking, reflux problems, sinusitis, allergies and continuous alcohol use can cause nodules in the vocal cords. Vocal cord nodules are more likely to be seen in people who use their voices a lot in their professional life, sound artists, call center workers, and teachers.

How is vocal cord surgery done?

As in many diseases, early diagnosis is very important in vocal cord diseases. Surgical treatment of vocal cord diseases, which manifests itself as a feeling of dryness in the throat, swelling, hoarseness, difficulty in swallowing and breathing, is performed by microscopic examination. Most of the time, a skin incision is not needed.

Things to pay attention after vocal cord surgery

Cyst formation is minimal after surgery and hoarseness is normal. Very hot and very cold food and drinks should be avoided. After vocal cord surgery, voice rest is important for the recovery of the vocal cords. Thus, since the vocal cords will contact each other less, the healing process will be easier.