Vocal Cord Surgery What is it?
Vocal cord surgeryis a surgical procedure performed to correct diseases, injuries, inflammation or dysfunctions in the vocal cords. The vocal cords play a vital role in the production of the voice and any problem in this area can lead to loss or deterioration of the voice. Vocal cord surgery is performed to restore the normal function of the voice and improve voice quality.
Vocal Cord Surgery When is it necessary?
Vocal cord surgery may be required in the following cases:
- Hoarseness and Continuous Distortion: Hoarseness may be the result of prolonged or persistent overuse of the vocal cords. If hoarseness does not go away or worsens, there may be a structural problem with the vocal cords and surgical intervention may be required.
- Vocal Nodules or Polyps: Nodules, polyps or cysts on the vocal cords prevent the normal vibrations of the voice and can cause hoarseness. These conditions can be treated with surgical intervention.
- Vocal Cord Paralysis: Paralysis of one of the vocal cords can cause the voice not to sound normally. In such cases, vocal cord function can be restored by surgical intervention.
- Cancer or Tumours: The formation of cancer or benign tumours on the vocal cords can lead to loss of voice. Vocal cord surgery can be performed to remove the tumours.
- Poor Volume Control and Audio Losses: Some people may have problems such as not having a strong and clear voice or not having a voice at all. Such situations may be caused by the vocal cords not working properly.
Vocal Cord Surgery How is it done?
Vocal cord surgery is usually performed in the following steps:
- Anaesthesia The operation can be performed under general anaesthesia or local anaesthesia. General anaesthesia is generally preferred because of the sensitive structure of the vocal cords.
- Laryngoscopy The surgeon uses a laryngoscope (an instrument used to see the vocal cords) to see the vocal cords and perform the operation. Laryngoscopy allows to examine the inside of the throat.
- Surgical Intervention: If there are nodules, polyps, cysts or tumours on the vocal cord, the surgeon will remove or repair these structures. In addition, repairs can be performed for conditions such as vocal cord paralysis.
- The Recovery Process: After the operation, a period of silence is usually recommended to allow the vocal cords to heal. Although the healing process varies from person to person, it can take several weeks for the voice to return completely.
Vocal Cord Surgery Prices
The price of vocal cord surgery may vary depending on the patient's treatment needs, the difficulty of the surgery and the region of the hospital. You should contact your doctor or hospital to get clear information about the price.
Vocal Cord Surgery Benefits
The benefits of vocal cord surgery are as follows:
- Voice Recovery: Patients with hoarseness, distortion or loss of voice can regain their voice with vocal cord surgery.
- Functional Recovery: By ensuring the proper functioning of the vocal cords, a more natural and powerful sound is obtained.
- Reduction of Pain and Difficulties: Vocal cord problems can often lead to swallowing difficulties and pain in the throat. Such complaints can be alleviated by surgery.
- Sound Quality Improvement: Vocal cord problems can cause distortion and decreased quality of the voice. A clearer and stronger voice can be obtained after surgery.
Vocal Cord Surgery Risks
As with any surgical procedure, vocal cord surgery has some risks. These are as follows:
- Infection: There may be a risk of infection after surgery. This risk can be minimised with antibiotic treatment recommended by the doctor.
- Haemorrhage There may be slight bleeding during the surgical intervention, but this can usually be controlled.
- Incomplete Sound Recovery: Some patients may experience a situation where the voice does not recover completely after surgery.
- Swallowing Difficulties: After the operation, swallowing difficulties may rarely occur.
- Sensory Changes: Sensory changes on the vocal cords may occur as a result of the nerves in the throat area being affected.
Vocal Cord Surgery Post Recovery Process
The recovery process after vocal cord surgery proceeds as follows:
- Silence: After surgery, care may need to be taken not to speak for a few days to allow the vocal cords to heal. Usually, doctors recommend complete silence for a while.
- Medicines Use: It is important to use the medication recommended by the doctor to prevent postoperative pain and inflammation.
- Controls Regular medical check-ups are performed after the operation. These controls ensure that the healing process proceeds in a healthy way.
- Sound Therapy: Some patients may receive voice therapy to speed up the healing process and strengthen their voice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is vocal cord surgery performed?
Vocal cord surgery is a surgical procedure to correct problems with the vocal cords. During this procedure, nodules, polyps or other structures on the vocal cords are removed or repaired.
Is vocal cord surgery painful?
Since the operation is performed under general anaesthesia, there is no pain during the procedure. There may be mild pain after the operation, but this pain can be managed with painkillers.
How is the healing process after vocal cord surgery?
The healing process may take several weeks. Voice restriction is recommended for a few days after surgery and it may take several weeks for the voice to return fully.
How long does vocal cord surgery take?
Vocal cord surgery is a procedure that usually takes 1-2 hours, but the duration of the procedure may vary depending on the patient's condition.
When will my voice recover after vocal cord surgery?
Although the healing process varies from person to person, it may take several weeks for the voice to recover completely. It is important to be patient and follow the doctor's recommendations.
Is there a loss of voice after vocal cord surgery?
The risk of voice loss after vocal cord surgery is low. However, some patients may experience difficulties with the return of the voice. Regular postoperative check-ups and voice therapy are important.
Who should have vocal cord surgery?
People with vocal cord problems such as hoarseness, loss of voice, vocal cord nodules or polyps, paralysis may be eligible for vocal cord surgery. An ear, nose and throat specialist should be consulted for detailed evaluation.
