Our Summary

This research paper is about a study comparing two different surgical methods for treating vocal cord polyps. In the study, 94 patients were randomly split into two groups: a control group and an observation group. The control group was treated using a basic laryngoscope surgery, while the observation group was treated using a combination of a nasal endoscope and a laryngoscope.

Overall, the results showed that the combination treatment was more effective. About 94% of patients in the observation group showed significant improvement, compared to about 79% in the control group. In addition, patients who underwent the combination treatment had fewer complications after surgery (around 9%, compared to 26% in the control group).

Six months after the operation, none of the patients in the observation group experienced a recurrence of their polyps, while about 4% of the control group did. After 12 months, only about 2% of the observation group experienced a recurrence, compared to about 15% in the control group.

In conclusion, the study suggests that using a nasal endoscope in combination with a laryngoscope for vocal cord polyp treatment is very effective. It significantly improves the voice functions of patients, is safer, and has a lower recurrence rate. Therefore, this treatment method is highly recommended.

FAQs

  1. What were the two surgical methods compared in the study for treating vocal cord polyps?
  2. How does the combination treatment of a nasal endoscope and a laryngoscope compare to the basic laryngoscope surgery in terms of effectiveness and safety?
  3. What was the recurrence rate of vocal cord polyps in patients from each group after 6 months and 12 months post-operation?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about vocal cord surgery is to follow all post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and prevent complications. This may include voice rest, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider. It is also important to communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to your doctor promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended vocal cord surgery include those who have vocal cord polyps, nodules, cysts, or other benign lesions that are affecting their voice quality and function. These patients may experience symptoms such as hoarseness, vocal fatigue, difficulty projecting their voice, or changes in pitch or tone.

In some cases, vocal cord surgery may also be recommended for patients with more serious conditions such as vocal cord paralysis, tumors, or scarring that is causing significant voice impairment. The decision to undergo surgery is typically made after other conservative treatments such as voice therapy have been attempted and have not been successful in improving the patient’s voice.

It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by a laryngologist or otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist) to determine if vocal cord surgery is the appropriate course of treatment for their specific condition. The type of surgery recommended will depend on the nature and severity of the vocal cord disorder, as well as the overall health and preferences of the patient.

Timeline

Timeline of a patient’s experience before and after vocal cord surgery:

Before surgery:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms such as hoarseness, voice fatigue, and changes in pitch.
  2. Patient undergoes a thorough evaluation by an otolaryngologist to diagnose vocal cord polyps.
  3. Treatment options, including surgery, are discussed with the patient.
  4. Patient may undergo preoperative testing, such as vocal cord imaging or laryngoscopy.
  5. Surgery date is scheduled, and preoperative instructions are given to the patient.

After surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes vocal cord surgery using either a laryngoscope or a combination of a nasal endoscope and a laryngoscope.
  2. Patient is monitored in the recovery room and may be discharged the same day or stay overnight in the hospital.
  3. Patient experiences some degree of postoperative pain, hoarseness, and difficulty swallowing, which can be managed with pain medication and voice rest.
  4. Follow-up appointments are scheduled for postoperative care and vocal rehabilitation therapy.
  5. Patient gradually resumes normal voice use and activities under the guidance of a speech therapist.
  6. Patient’s voice gradually improves over time, with continued monitoring for any signs of recurrence.
  7. Six months to one year after surgery, patient undergoes follow-up evaluations to assess the success of the surgery and monitor for any recurrence of vocal cord polyps.

Overall, the timeline of a patient’s experience before and after vocal cord surgery involves thorough evaluation, surgery, postoperative care, and long-term monitoring for optimal voice function and prevention of recurrence.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with vocal cord surgery?

  2. How long is the recovery process after vocal cord surgery?

  3. Will I need to undergo any voice therapy or rehabilitation after the surgery?

  4. How successful is this type of surgery in treating vocal cord polyps?

  5. Are there any alternative treatment options for vocal cord polyps that I should consider?

  6. What is the likelihood of the polyps recurring after surgery?

  7. How experienced are you in performing vocal cord surgery?

  8. What is the expected outcome in terms of voice quality and function after the surgery?

  9. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes or follow any specific instructions post-surgery?

  10. How long will it take for me to see improvement in my voice after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Zhang HL, Ding HF, Sun W, Huang ZL, Hu Y. Journal: Lin Chuang Er Bi Yan Hou Tou Jing Wai Ke Za Zhi. 2019 Mar;33(3):272-274. doi: 10.13201/j.issn.1001-1781.2019.03.021. PMID: 30813701