Current Treatment Approaches for Vocal Cord Nodules, Polyps, and Cysts
Our voice is not only our means of communication but also a reflection of our emotions and identity. However, factors such as intense speaking, incorrect voice use, smoking, allergies, and reflux can cause damage to the vocal cords. Among the most common results of this condition are vocal cord nodules, polyps, and cysts. Although these lesions are generally benign, they can lead to significant deterioration in voice quality. Today, thanks to early diagnosis and personalized approaches, it is possible to achieve successful treatment outcomes while preserving natural voice quality.
What Are Vocal Cord Nodules, Polyps, and Cysts?
Vocal cord nodules are small, hard protrusions that develop symmetrically in the middle part of both vocal cords. They form as a result of prolonged vocal strain, speaking loudly, or using the voice with incorrect breath support. They are particularly common among professional voice users such as teachers, singers, call center employees, and lawyers.
Vocal cord polyps are generally unilateral, softer lesions with fluid content. They can develop as a result of sudden shouting, coughing, or acute strain that causes vascular dilation.
Vocal cord cysts are capsules located within the vocal cord, filled with fluid or semi-solid material. They can be congenital or may arise due to chronic irritation or infections.
How Is the Diagnosis Made?
The most important step in diagnosing vocal cord lesions is endoscopic and stroboscopic examination. With these methods, the vocal cords are evaluated while in motion, and their vibratory characteristics are analyzed. If necessary, videostroboscopy recordings are taken to plan voice therapy or surgery. This examination is of great importance in understanding the nature of the lesion and avoiding unnecessary surgery.
Current Treatment Approaches
1-) Voice Therapy
The first treatment option for vocal cord nodules is usually a conservative approach. Voice therapy includes proper breath use, resonance placement, speech technique, and vocal hygiene education. With regular sessions conducted with a professional voice therapist, many nodules can regress without the need for surgery.
2-) Medical Support
Accompanying conditions such as allergies, reflux, and sinusitis negatively affect vocal cord health. Bringing these diseases under control accelerates the healing of the vocal cords and reduces the risk of recurrence. Particularly, dietary changes and medical treatments for reflux provide significant improvement in voice quality.
3-) Microlaryngeal Surgery
Microlaryngeal surgery is the gold standard treatment method for vocal cord polyps and cysts. This operation is performed under general anesthesia, with microscope guidance, and using special microsurgical instruments. The goal is to remove the lesion with minimal trauma to the vocal cord and preserve the natural vibratory wave. In advanced centers, laser or microdebrider-assisted techniques are also safely applied.
4-) Post-Surgical Voice Rehabilitation
Complete voice rest is recommended in the first days after surgery. Subsequently, new and healthy voice habits are established through voice therapy. This process both improves the quality of healing and reduces the risk of lesion recurrence.
Vocal cord nodules, polyps, and cysts are conditions that affect quality of life but can be completely controlled with the right approach. Today, thanks to high-resolution endoscopic imaging, stroboscopy, and microsurgical techniques, both safe and aesthetically successful results are achieved.
If you notice prolonged hoarseness, quick fatigue, or voice breaking, it is important to be evaluated by an ear, nose, throat, and voice disorders specialist. Remember; a healthy voice is the foundation of professional and social life.
