Do vocal cord nodules require surgery?

Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
Updated on September 01, 2024
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Vocal cord nodules refer to symmetrical nodular elevations that appear on the free edges of both vocal cords. These nodules are mostly grain-like or granular protrusions. Vocal cord nodules are often caused by incorrect pronunciation, overuse of the voice, or screaming loudly, which are inappropriate vocal habits. Generally, most vocal cord nodules will disappear on their own after resting the voice, speaking less, and using the voice correctly. Therefore, as explained above, vocal cord nodules do not require surgical treatment. Surgery is only necessary if the vocal cord nodules continue to develop uncontrollably, evolving into vocal cord polyps or other pathological changes.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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How to effectively treat vocal cord nodules?

Vocal cord nodules are a relatively common otolaryngological condition. In terms of treatment, it initially requires a laryngoscopic examination to assess the severity of the condition. Generally, conservative treatment is considered, commonly involving oral traditional Chinese medicine and nebulization therapy. Alongside medication, it's important to avoid excessive use of the voice and to engage in vocal rehabilitation training. Most patients will see gradual improvement in symptoms of hoarseness through these conservative treatments, and nodules may also gradually diminish in some cases. If standardized conservative treatments are ineffective and the symptoms of hoarseness are particularly severe, a small number of patients may consider surgical intervention.

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Written by Li Mao Cai
Otolaryngology
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Treatment methods for vocal cord nodules

The treatment is primarily divided into conservative treatment and surgical treatment. Generally, conservative treatment is implemented first. The main strategy of conservative treatment is vocal rest, which entails speaking as little as possible, typically for a duration of two to four weeks. Concurrently, medication is administered, often through nebulized inhalation therapy. The second approach is surgical treatment, which is considered if the conservative treatment does not yield satisfactory results, or if the condition worsens. At this point, surgical treatment of vocal cord nodules is typically performed using support laryngoscopy, microscopy, and either laser or fiber instruments to remove the vocal cord nodules. Post-surgery, a period of vocal rest is necessary for recovery, also lasting two to four weeks. During the recovery period, it is important to speak less, use proper phonation, avoid smoking and alcohol, follow a light diet, and steer clear of spicy and irritating foods.

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Written by Zhang Jun
Otolaryngology
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Symptoms of cancerous changes in vocal cord nodules

The possibility of malignant transformation of vocal cord nodules is very small. If cancerous transformation occurs, the patient will experience persistent hoarseness, as well as symptoms such as difficulty in breathing, difficulty in swallowing, persistent cough, and blood in the sputum. Vocal cord nodules are caused by prolonged improper use of the voice, shouting, or long-term irritation of the vocal cords by acid reflux. If patients do not undergo surgical treatment, the vocal cord nodules may continue to enlarge and undergo cellular mutations, leading to malignancy. At this point, patients may find cauliflower-like neoplasms or ulcers on the surface of the vocal cords. They will experience hoarseness, difficulty breathing, and difficulty swallowing. At this stage, it is necessary to perform a local biopsy. If a malignant tumor is confirmed, localized surgical treatment can lead to improvement.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Can vocal cord nodules be treated with medication?

Vocal cord nodules are small, dot-like or nodular protrusions occurring on the free edges of both vocal cords. These protrusions are quite small, and are primarily diagnosed using an electronic laryngoscope in clinical settings. For the treatment of vocal cord nodules, we can use certain medications, such as Huang's Resonant Voice Pills and Qingyin Sanjie Pills, which generally have relatively good effects. However, in clinical practice, we cannot rely solely on medication to treat vocal cord nodules. It is fundamental in the treatment of vocal cord nodules to avoid misuse of the voice. Attention must be paid to the training of correct pronunciation methods. Only through such measures can vocal cord nodules be fully treated, preventing recurrence or further development into vocal cord polyps.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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What should I pay attention to for vocal cord nodules usually?

Vocal cord nodules are a relatively common ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) disorder, and there are several aspects to be mindful of in daily life. The first aspect is to avoid excessive use of the voice. Frequent overuse can exacerbate symptoms of hoarseness and potentially worsen the condition of the vocal cord nodules. The second aspect concerns diet; it is advisable to eat lightly and avoid spicy and irritant foods. The third aspect pertains to lifestyle habits; do not smoke or drink alcohol. Both tobacco and alcohol are strong irritants to the mucous membranes and vocal cords, and they can potentially lead to a worsening of the vocal cord nodules.