Do vocal cord polyps definitely require surgery?

Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
Updated on March 20, 2025
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Vocal cord polyps do not necessarily require surgery. This decision mainly depends on the size of the polyp and the symptoms presented. If the polyp is small and the clinical symptoms are not particularly severe, it may be considered to observe and manage with oral medications and nebulized treatments. It is also important to minimize speaking and avoid overusing the voice. If the polyp is larger, and there are noticeable symptoms such as a hoarse voice, or if it affects normal breathing and swallowing, surgery is generally considered. After surgery, regular follow-ups are necessary to monitor recovery. It is crucial to avoid overusing the voice and to regularly have laryngoscopic exams to check for any recurrence.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Will vocal cord polyps recur after they are removed?

Vocal cord polyps are polyp-like benign neoplasms that occur on the free edge of the vocal cords. Vocal cord polyps generally require surgical treatment, as medication typically cannot eliminate the polyps. Post-surgery, there is a certain recurrence rate for vocal cord polyps. The recurrence of vocal cord polyps is often related to factors such as excessive voice use, gastroesophageal reflux, or frequent upper respiratory tract infections. Therefore, after surgery for vocal cord polyps, it is important to avoid these factors to prevent recurrence of the polyps.

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Written by Zhang Jun
Otolaryngology
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How long does it take for vocal cord polyps to go away with medication?

Vocal cord polyps do not respond to medical treatment. The majority of vocal cord polyps are caused by improper or excessive use of the voice, such as prolonged speaking, overexertion, and shouting, leading to vocal cord lesions. The disease typically affects one vocal cord, causing the patient to have persistent and progressively worsening hoarseness. During an examination with a laryngoscope, a smooth, pale white or pale red neoplasm with a thin stalk can be seen at the anterior-middle third of one vocal cord. The vocal cord moves well but does not close completely. In terms of treatment, medication is ineffective for vocal cord nodules and polyps. The patient needs to undergo a vocal cord polypectomy under a support laryngoscopy. This surgery requires hospitalization, general anesthesia, and postoperative use of antibiotics to prevent local infection. Recovery and discharge can typically occur about a week post-operation. After recovery, patients are advised to speak softly and minimally, and avoid exhaustion to prevent recurrence. (The use of medication should be under the guidance of a professional doctor.)

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Written by Xu Qing Tian
Otolaryngology
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Is the recurrence rate of vocal cord polyps high?

Vocal cord polyps are a common and frequently occurring condition in otolaryngology. Usually, if patients strictly protect their voice after undergoing vocal cord polyp surgery, the recurrence rate is generally low. However, patients in professions such as teaching, sales, and singing, who often strain their voices, may experience recurrence of vocal cord polyps. The formation of vocal cord polyps is due to the rupture of capillaries and edema in the vocal cord mucosa, leading to neoplasm proliferation. An electronic laryngoscopy can be used to clearly diagnose the disease. Patients with vocal cord polyps should be advised to strictly rest their voice and avoid excessive vocal strain. Surgical removal of the vocal cord polyps is necessary to cure the condition.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Can vocal cord polyps be treated without surgery?

Vocal cord polyps are benign neoplasms in the throat, primarily presenting clinically as hoarseness. Typically, vocal cord polyps are relatively large when detected, and various treatment methods often do not result in complete disappearance. Therefore, clinical treatment of vocal cord polyps mainly involves surgical removal. Sometimes, if patients are reluctant to undergo surgery, medication can be attempted. However, the likelihood of completely eliminating vocal cord polyps with medication alone is relatively low. If the condition does not improve or the polyps do not shrink or disappear after medicinal treatment, surgery is often necessary.

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

Vocal cord polyps are common and frequently occurring conditions within the otolaryngology head and neck surgery specialty. Clinically, vocal cord polyps are primarily seen in the otolaryngology head and neck surgery department. In some larger specialized hospitals with detailed subdivisions, there are specific laryngology departments, allowing for treatment to be sought specifically within these departments. Additionally, some hospitals might have separate divisions such as pharyngolaryngology, laryngology, or pharyngolaryngeal head and neck surgery, which are specialized in this area and can also provide appropriate treatment. For hospitals specializing in certain diseases or specific disorders, such as a voice specialty, treatment can also be sought in these specialized departments.