Our Summary
This research paper discusses a study that was conducted to determine the effectiveness of using a specific type of ultrasound, known as translaryngeal ultrasonography, to detect vocal cord problems immediately after throat surgery. The study focused on whether this method is practical and accurate, especially considering that swelling in the throat after surgery could potentially interfere with the ultrasound results.
The researchers tested this method on patients who had recently undergone neck surgery. They performed the ultrasound immediately after the patients were taken off the breathing tubes in the recovery room, and compared these results with examinations conducted one day before and seven days after the surgery.
Out of 65 patients, the researchers found that they were able to accurately assess the vocal cords in 94% of cases using this ultrasound method. The results from the immediate post-surgery ultrasound completely matched the results of the examination conducted seven days later. However, the researchers noted that longer surgery times were associated with difficulty in assessing the vocal cords using this ultrasound method.
In conclusion, the study found that using translaryngeal ultrasonography to assess vocal cord function immediately after throat surgery is both feasible and accurate. However, the method might be more challenging to use in cases where the surgery took a long time.
FAQs
- What is translaryngeal ultrasonography and how is it used in the study?
- How accurate was the use of translaryngeal ultrasonography in detecting vocal cord problems immediately after surgery?
- Does the length of surgery time affect the effectiveness of using translaryngeal ultrasonography to assess vocal cord function?
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, including resting the voice, staying hydrated, and avoiding activities that strain the vocal cords. It is important to give the vocal cords time to heal properly to ensure the best possible outcome from the surgery. Additionally, attending any recommended follow-up appointments with the doctor to monitor progress and address any concerns is essential for a successful recovery.
Suitable For
Patients who may be recommended vocal cord surgery include those with various vocal cord disorders such as vocal cord paralysis, vocal cord nodules, vocal cord polyps, vocal cord cysts, and vocal cord cancer. Other conditions that may warrant vocal cord surgery include severe hoarseness, difficulty breathing, chronic cough, and swallowing difficulties.
Patients who have not responded to conservative treatments such as voice therapy, medication, or injections may also be candidates for vocal cord surgery. Additionally, individuals with structural abnormalities or injuries to the vocal cords that are affecting their voice production or causing other symptoms may benefit from surgical intervention.
It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist) to determine if vocal cord surgery is the most appropriate treatment option for their specific condition. The decision to undergo vocal cord surgery should be made in consultation with a medical professional who can assess the risks and benefits of the procedure based on the individual patient’s overall health and medical history.
Timeline
Overall, the timeline of a patient’s experience before and after vocal cord surgery would typically involve:
- Pre-surgery consultation and evaluations to determine the need for surgery and discuss potential risks and benefits.
- The day of surgery, the patient would undergo the procedure under general anesthesia, during which the vocal cords are accessed and any necessary repairs or adjustments are made.
- After the surgery, the patient would be monitored in the recovery room and may undergo a post-operative assessment of the vocal cords to ensure proper function.
- In the days following surgery, the patient would continue to recover, potentially experiencing some discomfort or difficulty with speaking or swallowing.
- Around one week post-surgery, the patient may undergo a follow-up examination to assess the healing process and ensure the vocal cords are functioning properly.
- In some cases, speech therapy or other interventions may be recommended to help the patient regain full vocal function and reduce any potential complications from the surgery.
Overall, vocal cord surgery can be a challenging but effective treatment option for patients with voice disorders or other vocal cord issues. With proper care and monitoring before and after the surgery, patients can often achieve improved vocal function and quality of life.
What to Ask Your Doctor
Some questions a patient may consider asking their doctor about vocal cord surgery include:
- What specific type of vocal cord surgery do I need, and why is it necessary?
- What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery?
- How long is the recovery process expected to be, and what can I expect during this time?
- Will I need any special accommodations or therapy after the surgery to help with my vocal cord function?
- What is the success rate of this type of surgery for treating my condition?
- Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that I should consider before proceeding with surgery?
- Will I need any follow-up appointments or tests to monitor my vocal cord function after the surgery?
- What restrictions or lifestyle changes should I be aware of following the surgery to ensure optimal healing and recovery?
- How experienced is the surgical team in performing this type of procedure, and what is their success rate?
- Can you explain in detail the potential impact of swelling or other post-surgery complications on the accuracy of vocal cord assessments, and how will this be managed?
Reference
Authors: Fung MMH, Lang BH. Journal: Surgery. 2021 Jan;169(1):191-196. doi: 10.1016/j.surg.2020.03.025. Epub 2020 May 31. PMID: 32493615