Is nebulization effective for vocal cord polyps?

Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
Updated on November 19, 2024
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Vocal cord polyps refer to benign neoplasms located on the vocal cords. These neoplasms cause hoarseness, which is persistent, and in severe cases, may lead to voice loss or a distinct sensation of a lump when speaking. Clinically, vocal cord polyps are primarily removed through surgery. Nebulized inhalation treatments with medication can help reduce the swelling of the vocal cord polyps and alleviate congestion. Thus, nebulized inhalation plays a definite role in the treatment of vocal cord polyps, but it should not be expected to completely eliminate the polyps, as this is unrealistic and unachievable. Post-surgical nebulized inhalation can help reduce congestion and swelling, and actively aid in the recovery from vocal cord polyp surgery.

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Written by Li Mao Cai
Otolaryngology
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Do vocal cord polyps definitely require surgery?

The treatment of vocal cord polyps is primarily surgical since this condition is mainly caused by excessive talking, improper voice use, or overuse of the voice at one time. Such actions can lead to pathological changes in the vocal cord mucosa, resulting in edema and vascular dilation in the Reinke's space, and even hemorrhagic polyps. In these cases, simple voice rest or medical treatment is often ineffective. The best approach is to surgically remove the polyps completely, and then combine this with voice rehabilitation and correct pronunciation to achieve the best possible healing of the surgical site. Therefore, the most appropriate treatment plan for vocal cord polyps is to undergo surgery promptly. The specific surgical method depends on the size and location of the polyp, and whether it can be well exposed during surgery.

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Written by Xu Qing Tian
Otolaryngology
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The difference between vocal cord nodules and polyps

Vocal cord nodules are often bilateral symmetrical tiny nodules, while vocal cord polyps can be unilateral or bilateral. Vocal cord nodules commonly affect teachers, singers, orators, and other professions that involve excessive use of the voice. Vocal cord polyps, however, can be seen in all kinds of people. For vocal cord nodules, treatment usually begins with medication. If medication is ineffective, surgical treatment may be considered. For patients with vocal cord polyps, the most common treatment method is surgical removal of the polyps. Post-surgery, it is crucial to protect the voice and maintain silence to aid recovery. Generally, both vocal cord nodules and polyps can be cured.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Foods to avoid with vocal cord polyps

Vocal cord polyps are benign neoplasms of the vocal cords, clinically primarily polyps at the anterior end of the vocal cords, mainly manifesting as hoarseness. The treatment mainly involves the removal of the vocal cord polyps under a microscope or endoscope. After surgery, we need to pay attention to certain dietary aspects. First, some spicy and irritating foods, such as chili peppers and alcohol, should be avoided. Second, it is important to regulate the temperature of foods; overly cold items, such as popsicles, or overly hot items, such as hot pot, should be consumed with caution. The third point is to avoid certain foods that can cause allergies, such as mangoes, especially if the patient has an allergic constitution; these should be avoided or minimized in the diet.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Vocal cord polyps should be seen by the ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) department.

Vocal cord polyps are benign neoplasms that occur on the free edge of the vocal cords. Therefore, they are primarily treated in the otolaryngology departments of clinics. In larger comprehensive hospitals, where specialties are more detailed, one might see an expert in the pharyngology or laryngology departments. In traditional Chinese medicine hospitals, patients might visit the department of otorhinolaryngology, which is included within the broader five senses (otorhinolaryngology) department. In general, the treatment of vocal cord polyps is predominantly managed by otolaryngologists, with the main treatment method being surgical removal of the polyps. After surgery, it is recommended to speak less to avoid the recurrence of the polyps.

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Written by Li Mao Cai
Otolaryngology
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Vocal cord polyp general anesthesia surgery process

Vocal cord polyp surgery under general anesthesia currently involves the use of a combined inhalation and general anesthesia approach, employing a supporting laryngoscope for the excision of the vocal cord polyp. Before the surgery begins, general anesthesia is administered. After the patient is under general anesthesia, the doctor uses a supporting laryngoscope to fully expose the vocal cord polyp. Next, through a fibroscope, in conjunction with fiberoptic instruments or a carbon dioxide laser, the vocal cord polyp is completely excised. The source of the vocal cord injury is repaired to make the vocal cord surface smooth, and then the surgery is concluded. After the surgery, the anesthetist waits for the patient to wake up from the general anesthesia before they can be taken back to their room. The overall duration of the procedure, from anesthesia to surgery to awakening, is typically about an hour or so. Of course, treatment needs to be tailored to the specific patient. In some patients, the vocal cord polyps may not be easily exposed under the supporting laryngoscope, which might extend the duration slightly, whereas in others, where the exposure is straightforward, the procedure may be relatively shorter.