Our Summary

The authors of this research paper looked into the effectiveness of using steroid injections to treat non-cancerous growths in the voice box, such as nodules, polyps, cysts, and Reinke’s edema. These injections are usually given through the nose, but there isn’t much information available about giving these injections directly through the skin of the neck. The authors searched two major databases for studies on this topic and found 16 that met their criteria. They found that these injections can effectively treat these growths, especially nodules and polyps. But they note that the studies they found were quite different from each other, which makes it hard to apply their findings broadly. They suggest that more research needs to be done, ideally in larger, multi-center studies.

FAQs

  1. What types of non-cancerous growths in the voice box can be treated with steroid injections?
  2. Can steroid injections be given directly through the skin of the neck to treat growths such as nodules and polyps?
  3. Is there a need for more research on the effectiveness of using steroid injections to treat non-cancerous growths in the voice box?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about nasal polyp removal is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to reduce the risk of complications and ensure a successful recovery. This may include avoiding strenuous activities, following a prescribed medication regimen, and attending follow-up appointments with the doctor. It is also important to keep the nasal passages clean and moisturized to promote healing and prevent infection. It is important to discuss any concerns or questions with the doctor to ensure the best possible outcome.

Suitable For

Patients who have nasal polyps that are causing symptoms such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, loss of smell, or sinus infections are typically recommended to undergo nasal polyp removal. Other factors that may indicate the need for nasal polyp removal include the failure of conservative treatments such as nasal corticosteroids, nasal sprays, or oral corticosteroids, as well as the presence of severe symptoms or complications such as obstructive sleep apnea or asthma exacerbations. Additionally, patients with recurrent or rapidly growing nasal polyps may also be candidates for nasal polyp removal. Ultimately, the decision to undergo nasal polyp removal should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider based on the individual patient’s symptoms and medical history.

Timeline

Before nasal polyp removal:

  1. Patient may experience symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, loss of smell, facial pain or pressure, and postnasal drip.
  2. Patient may undergo a physical examination, nasal endoscopy, and imaging tests such as CT scans to diagnose nasal polyps.
  3. Patient may be prescribed medications such as nasal corticosteroids, antihistamines, or decongestants to manage symptoms.

After nasal polyp removal:

  1. Patient undergoes nasal polyp removal surgery, which can be done through endoscopic sinus surgery or traditional open surgery.
  2. Recovery period typically involves pain management, nasal packing removal, and follow-up appointments with the surgeon.
  3. Patient may experience temporary changes in sense of taste or smell, nasal congestion, or mild discomfort during the healing process.
  4. Patient may be prescribed medications or nasal sprays to prevent the recurrence of nasal polyps.
  5. Long-term follow-up may be required to monitor for any recurrence of nasal polyps and to ensure optimal healing and symptom relief.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with nasal polyp removal surgery?
  2. What is the likelihood of the polyps returning after surgery?
  3. What is the expected recovery time and post-operative care plan?
  4. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before opting for surgery?
  5. How many nasal polyp removal surgeries have you performed and what is your success rate?
  6. Will I need to follow up with you regularly after the surgery for monitoring and further treatment?
  7. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take to prevent the recurrence of nasal polyps?
  8. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery and what are the potential side effects?
  9. How long will the surgery take and will I need to stay overnight in the hospital?
  10. Are there any restrictions on activities or medications I should be aware of before and after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Franz L, Baracca G, Matarazzo A, de Filippis C, Marioni G. Journal: Am J Otolaryngol. 2025 Jun 11;46(5):104688. doi: 10.1016/j.amjoto.2025.104688. Online ahead of print. PMID: 40526993