Our Summary

This research paper appears to discuss the use of anesthesia in procedures involving lung isolation and one lung ventilation, and how these procedures may interact with vocal cord implants or a vocal cord prosthesis. Lung isolation and one lung ventilation are techniques often used in thoracic surgery, where one lung is deflated to allow surgeons better access to the area they need to operate on. The paper presumably talks about the challenges and considerations that must be made when a patient with vocal cord implants or a vocal cord prosthesis needs such a procedure, as anesthesia can affect these implants or prosthesis.

FAQs

  1. What is vocal cord surgery and what does it involve?
  2. What are the anesthesia methods used in vocal cord surgery?
  3. What are vocal cord implants and prostheses?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about vocal cord surgery is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including resting the voice and avoiding excessive talking or shouting to allow the vocal cords to heal properly. It is also important to attend any follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and address any concerns or complications that may arise.

Suitable For

There are a variety of patients who may be recommended for vocal cord surgery, including those with:

  1. Vocal cord paralysis: Patients with vocal cord paralysis may benefit from surgery to improve vocal cord function and speech.

  2. Vocal cord nodules or polyps: Patients with vocal cord nodules or polyps may require surgery to remove these growths and improve vocal quality.

  3. Vocal cord cancer: Patients with vocal cord cancer may require surgery to remove the tumor and potentially undergo additional treatments such as radiation or chemotherapy.

  4. Vocal cord dysfunction: Patients with vocal cord dysfunction may benefit from surgery to correct issues with vocal cord movement and function.

  5. Vocal cord trauma: Patients who have experienced trauma to the vocal cords, such as from intubation or injury, may require surgery to repair the damage.

Ultimately, the decision to recommend vocal cord surgery will depend on the specific condition of the patient and their individual needs and goals for vocal function. A thorough evaluation by a qualified otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist) is typically necessary to determine the best course of treatment.

Timeline

Before vocal cord surgery:

  1. Consultation with an otolaryngologist to discuss symptoms and determine the need for surgery.
  2. Pre-operative testing to assess vocal cord function and overall health.
  3. Pre-operative counseling and education about the procedure, potential risks, and post-operative care.
  4. Anesthesia consultation to discuss the type of anesthesia needed for the surgery.

After vocal cord surgery:

  1. Recovery in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) immediately following the surgery.
  2. Monitoring of vital signs and pain management in the PACU.
  3. Discharge home with instructions for post-operative care, including voice rest and medication management.
  4. Follow-up appointments with the otolaryngologist to monitor healing and assess vocal cord function.
  5. Speech therapy to help regain vocal strength and improve voice quality.
  6. Continued monitoring and follow-up care to ensure optimal outcomes and address any complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the specific reason for recommending vocal cord surgery?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with vocal cord surgery?
  3. What is the success rate of this type of surgery?
  4. What is the recovery process like after vocal cord surgery?
  5. Will I need speech therapy or other follow-up care after the surgery?
  6. How long will it take for me to see improvement in my voice after the surgery?
  7. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could be considered instead of surgery?
  8. How many times have you performed this type of surgery and what is your success rate?
  9. Will I need to follow any special instructions or restrictions before or after the surgery?
  10. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery and are there any potential risks associated with it?

Reference

Authors: Bhandary SP, Shehata IM, Richter E, Klopman M. Journal: J Cardiothorac Vasc Anesth. 2022 Aug;36(8 Pt B):3129-3130. doi: 10.1053/j.jvca.2021.10.034. Epub 2021 Nov 2. PMID: 34895833