Vocal Cord Polyps & Vocal Cord Polyps Surgery
Vocal cord polyps are benign growths that develop on the vocal folds (vocal cords), commonly causing hoarseness, breathy voice, vocal fatigue, and changes in voice quality. When conservative treatment fails, vocal cord polyps surgery (microlaryngoscopic excision) is recommended to restore normal vocal function and prevent long-term voice damage.
What Are Vocal Cord Polyps?
Vocal cord polyps are soft, fluid-filled or firm lesions that arise due to repeated irritation or trauma to the vocal fold lining. Unlike vocal nodules, which are usually bilateral, vocal cord polyps are typically unilateral and can range from small swellings to larger pedunculated growths that interfere with normal vocal fold vibration.
History & Clinical Background
Benign lesions of the larynx have been described for over a century, but vocal cord polyps were better understood with the development of rigid and flexible laryngoscopy in the early 20th century. The introduction of microlaryngoscopic techniques in the mid-1900s enabled precise surgical removal while preserving voice quality. Today, management combines medical treatment, voice therapy, and advanced surgical techniques for optimal outcomes.
Prevalence & Indian Clinical Context
- Common benign laryngeal lesion in adult patients
- Higher incidence in middle-aged males
- Strong association with smoking, alcohol use, and voice overuse
- Frequently seen in teachers, singers, and call-centre professionals
- Commonly managed at tertiary ENT centres across major Indian cities
Early evaluation of persistent hoarseness is strongly recommended to prevent progressive voice impairment.
Why Vocal Cord Polyps Require Surgery
While some small polyps may respond to conservative management, surgery becomes necessary when symptoms persist or worsen.
- Persistent hoarseness despite voice therapy
- Large or pedunculated polyps
- Breathing difficulty or airway compromise
- Professional voice users requiring rapid recovery
- Recurrent vocal trauma or infections
Pre-Operative Evaluation
- Detailed clinical history and voice assessment
- Rigid or flexible laryngoscopic examination
- Stroboscopy to assess vocal fold vibration
- Pre-operative voice recording for comparison
- Imaging (CT/MRI) in selected cases
- Medical and anesthesia fitness evaluation
Types of Vocal Cord Polyps Surgery
The standard treatment is microlaryngoscopic polypectomy performed under general anesthesia using advanced optical magnification.
- Operating microscope with microlaryngoscopic instruments
- Micro-scissors and fine forceps
- Microdebrider-assisted excision
- Laser-assisted surgery (CO2 or KTP) in selected cases
Recent Advances in Vocal Cord Polyps Surgery
- Endoscopic laser surgery for precise, bloodless excision
- High-definition endoscopy and stroboscopy
- Voice-preserving microsurgical techniques
- Office-based laser procedures in selected patients
- Integrated pre- and post-operative voice therapy
Possible Side Effects & Risks
- Temporary hoarseness or breathy voice
- Sore throat after surgery
- Granulation tissue formation
- Rare vocal fold scarring
- Minimal risk of recurrence with proper care
Results & Outcomes
Vocal cord polyps surgery offers excellent outcomes when performed using modern techniques.
- Significant improvement in voice quality and endurance
- Resolution of hoarseness and vocal fatigue
- High patient satisfaction, especially among professional voice users
- Low recurrence rates with voice therapy and lifestyle modification
Conclusion
Vocal cord polyps are a common cause of persistent voice change and hoarseness. When conservative treatment is ineffective, microlaryngoscopic surgery provides safe, effective, and lasting voice restoration. Advances in surgical technology, combined with structured voice therapy, ensure excellent functional outcomes and long-term vocal health. Indian clinical experience strongly supports the safety and effectiveness of these procedures.