VOCAL CORD SURGERY
Vocal cord surgery is a type of laryngeal surgery that focuses on the repair or removal of vocal cords. This type of procedure is typically done to treat voice disorders, vocal fold paralysis, and other issues related to the throat and larynx. It can also be used to help with breathing problems, such as those caused by allergies or asthma. NJ ENT can help if you are experiencing vocal cord problems and tell you if vocal cord surgery is right for you.
Vocal Cord Problems
Vocal cord problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including age, smoking, and overuse of the vocal cords. Vocal cord nodules – which are benign growths on the vocal cords that can cause hoarseness or a rough-sounding voice – tend to occur in individuals who strain their voices regularly; this includes singers, public speakers, teachers, actors, and others whose vocations involve frequent vocal activity. Other possible causes of vocal cord damage include allergies or conditions such as acid reflux that may lead to inflammation or swelling of the larynx (the organ containing your vocal cords).
Vocal Cord Paralysis
Vocal cord paralysis can be a devastating condition, impacting vocal quality and communication. Though vocal cord paralysis can have many potential causes, such as vocal traumas or neurological damage, this condition is most commonly seen in individuals after thyroid cancer surgery, severe trauma to the neck area, or viral infections of the vocal cords.
The severity of vocal cord paralysis depends on the extent of vocal cord damage. Affected vocal cords may be weak and unable to move, unable to open or close properly, or stiffened and immobile. Causes for vocal cord paralysis can sometimes be reversed through vocal therapy or medical care; however, vocal cord paralysis that is caused by nerve injury often requires surgical intervention.
Polyps and Tumors
Vocal cord growths, or vocal fold lesions, are a condition that affects the vocal cords. They can range from being benign polyps to cancerous nodules. Symptoms of vocal cord growths include hoarseness, sore throat, and difficulty speaking. If left untreated, vocal cord growths can lead to permanent damage of the vocal cords. Treatment for vocal cord growths usually involves surgery to remove the growth, followed by vocal therapy to help restore vocal function.
If you’re experiencing vocal cord issues due to any of these causes, laryngeal surgery may be an option. This surgery is typically recommended only when other treatments have proven insufficient; examples of potential non-surgical treatment options include voice therapy, medications for allergies or acid reflux, and lifestyle changes such as avoiding vocal strain and quitting smoking. Your NJ ENT doctor can help you decide if laryngeal surgery is the best choice for you.
Treatment Options
Voice Therapy
Voice therapy is an effective and non-invasive way to help people improve the quality of their voice. Voice therapy can be used for a variety of purposes, including improving articulation, increasing vocal range or strength, controlling pitch or loudness, reducing tension in the throat and neck muscles, and developing better communication skills. It can also be used to address voice-related medical issues, such as voice disorders or voice fatigue. For anyone looking to improve the sound of their voice and communication skills, voice therapy is a great option.
Surgical Procedure
If laryngeal surgery proves to be beneficial in your case, rest assured that it’s a fairly safe procedure with minimal risk involved. The goal of laryngeal surgery is usually to improve vocal quality and strengthen the cords, which makes it possible for patients to communicate more easily. During the procedure, surgeons may use laser technology, microsurgery tools, or traditional surgical techniques to correct any abnormalities in the vocal cords or surrounding tissue.
Surgery Recovery
As with all surgeries, there are risks associated with vocal cord surgery, and those considering the procedure should consult with their doctor to ensure that it is the right choice for them. With proper preparation, vocal cord surgery can be a successful solution to many voice and laryngeal issues.
Following vocal cord surgery, full recovery may take up to 2 weeks depending on the individual situation – but with regular monitoring from your doctor at NJ ENT, laryngeal surgery can make a huge difference to your communication.
Most people who undergo vocal cord surgery experience relief from their symptoms and improved overall function in their throat and larynx after healing has occurred. To ensure successful vocal cord surgery, it’s important to follow the instructions of your doctor at NJ ENT during post-op recovery and rehabilitation. With proper care and maintenance, you’ll be able to enjoy improved communication quality in no time!
How We Can Help
The New Jersey Ear, Nose, and Throat Center team has performed thousands of procedures and has the experience to provide you with exceptional care. We use the latest technology and techniques to ensure that you receive the best possible outcome. Our doctors are experts in their field specializing in nose and sinus disorders and the procedures and surgeries that can offer relief from those symptoms. Need more information about vocal cord surgery? Get in touch with NJ ENT – they can provide reliable answers and advice tailored just for you!
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