Our Summary

This research paper is about a study comparing two methods used to check if a particular nerve in the neck (the recurrent laryngeal nerve) is working properly during surgery.

The traditional method is called electromyography and involves obtaining a normal electrical signal from the nerve. The new method uses ultrasound, a type of imaging technology, to observe the movement of the vocal cords when the nerve is stimulated.

The researchers tested both methods on patients undergoing surgeries that could potentially damage this nerve. They also used a scope to directly view the vocal cords after surgery to verify the results of both tests.

They found that both methods were similarly accurate in detecting whether the nerve was functioning properly. However, the ultrasound method was much cheaper than the traditional method.

In conclusion, the researchers suggest that ultrasound could be a cost-effective alternative to the traditional method. It could also be useful in situations where the traditional method fails to provide a clear signal during surgery.

FAQs

  1. What are the two methods used to check the functionality of the recurrent laryngeal nerve during surgery?
  2. How did the researchers verify the results of both the electromyography and ultrasound methods?
  3. According to the research, what are the advantages of using ultrasound over the traditional method?

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 excessive talking or yelling. It is also important to attend all follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing progress and address any concerns. Additionally, practicing good vocal hygiene, such as avoiding irritants like smoking or excessive caffeine, can help promote optimal healing of the vocal cords after surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended vocal cord surgery include those with vocal cord nodules, polyps, cysts, or other benign lesions that affect vocal cord function. Patients with vocal cord paralysis, vocal cord paresis, or other neurological conditions affecting vocal cord movement may also be recommended for surgery. Additionally, patients with laryngeal cancer or other tumors affecting the vocal cords may require surgery to remove the affected tissue.

Timeline

Before vocal cord surgery:

  1. Patient consults with a physician and discusses symptoms and potential treatment options.
  2. Patient undergoes a series of tests and evaluations to determine the need for surgery.
  3. Surgical date is scheduled and pre-operative instructions are provided to the patient.

During vocal cord surgery:

  1. Patient is put under anesthesia and the surgical team prepares for the procedure.
  2. Surgeon performs the necessary steps to repair or adjust the vocal cords.
  3. Intraoperative monitoring of the recurrent laryngeal nerve is conducted using either electromyography or ultrasound.
  4. Surgical team verifies the function of the nerve before completing the procedure.

After vocal cord surgery:

  1. Patient wakes up in the recovery room and is monitored for any immediate post-operative complications.
  2. Patient is given post-operative care instructions and prescribed medications for pain management and healing.
  3. Patient follows up with the surgeon for post-operative appointments to monitor healing progress.
  4. Patient may undergo speech therapy to help regain proper vocal function.
  5. Patient’s progress is monitored over time to ensure successful recovery and optimal vocal cord function.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  • What are the potential risks and complications associated with vocal cord surgery?
  • How will the surgery affect my voice and ability to speak?
  • What is the success rate of this surgery for my specific condition?
  • How long is the recovery process and what can I expect in terms of pain and discomfort?
  • Will I need any follow-up appointments or therapy after the surgery?
  • How experienced are you in performing this type of surgery?
  • Can you explain the differences between electromyography and ultrasound in terms of accuracy and cost?
  • What are the potential benefits of using ultrasound over electromyography for monitoring the recurrent laryngeal nerve?
  • Are there any specific factors that would make me a better candidate for one method over the other?
  • Are there any other alternative treatments or therapies that I should consider before opting for surgery?

Reference

Authors: Fung MMH, Lang BH. Journal: Surgery. 2022 Jan;171(1):165-171. doi: 10.1016/j.surg.2021.05.062. Epub 2021 Jul 30. PMID: 34334213