How are vocal cord polyps caused?

Written by Li Mao Cai

Otolaryngology

Updated on January 13, 2025

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The main causes of vocal cord polyps are improper voicing or excessive voice use. For example, professions that involve a lot of talking, such as teachers, salespeople, singers, actors, etc., can also lead to polyps after a single intense vocalization. For instance, clinically, it is seen in individuals who go to karaoke after drinking and shout loudly, straining their voice, which can then cause the formation of the vertical polyps. Additionally, upper respiratory infections, such as hoarseness following a cold, can also lead to the diagnosis of vocal cord polyps upon further examination. Therefore, the primary causes are improper or excessive voice use and some upper respiratory infections that lead to vocal cord polyps.

Other Voices

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Written by Deng Bang Yu

Otolaryngology

41sec

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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 Li Rui

Otolaryngology

45sec

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Postoperative care for vocal cord polyps surgery

Vocal cord polyps are a relatively common otolaryngological condition. In terms of treatment, conservative treatment is considered if the polyp is small. However, if the polyp is large and conservative treatment is ineffective, surgical treatment may be necessary. Currently, the main procedure is microlaryngoscopic vocal cord polyp removal surgery, which is a common minimally invasive surgical method. Post-surgery, it is generally recommended to have regular follow-ups, ideally weekly, to monitor recovery. Additionally, nebulizer treatment is advised as an auxiliary therapy to aid post-surgical recovery. After surgery, it is also important to minimize speaking and avoid overusing the voice.

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Written by Li Mao Cai

Otolaryngology

1min 17sec

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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.

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Written by Zhang Jun

Otolaryngology

1min 3sec

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Can recurrent vocal cord polyps turn into cancer?

Recurrent vocal cord polyps can potentially lead to cancerous changes. Vocal cord polyps are caused by improper use of the voice over an extended period, such as yelling loudly or excessive fatigue, leading to changes in the vocal cords. Generally, it affects one vocal cord and causes the patient to experience persistent, progressive hoarseness. During an examination with an electronic laryngoscope, a neoplasm can be observed on the anterior-middle third of the affected vocal cord. This neoplasm is smooth, pale white or pale red, and has a thin stalk, leading to incomplete closure of the vocal folds and subsequent hoarseness. In terms of treatment, conservative methods are ineffective. The patient requires a microlaryngoscopy under general anesthesia to remove the vocal cord polyp. Postoperative care includes antibiotics to prevent local infections, and the patient can typically recover and be discharged about a week after the surgery.

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Written by Li Mao Cai

Otolaryngology

58sec

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Causes of vocal cord polyps

Vocal cord polyps are a common condition in otolaryngology, with the main causes as follows: First, talking a lot. Here, talking a lot refers to normal speaking due to work or lifestyle reasons. Being in a work environment that requires extended periods of talking can lead to the development of vocal cord polyps over time. Second, improper voicing. Some people speak very hurriedly and tend to shout loudly; such habits over a prolonged period can lead to swelling of the vocal cord mucosa, which further develops into vocal cord polyps. Third, smoking. Patients who smoke heavily and for long periods can also develop vocal cord polyps, often compounded by speaking a lot while smoking, making it one of the most common causes of vocal cord polyps. Fourth, working or living in environments with significant pollution, drinking less water, and exposure to lots of dust are also common reasons.