Our Summary

This research paper highlights the need for a standardized language for describing different endoscopic procedures used to treat a condition called Bilateral Vocal Fold Immobility (BVFI), which is a disorder that impacts the movement of the vocal cords. Currently, there’s a lack of consistency in the way these procedures are described, which makes it difficult to compare outcomes and effectiveness.

To address this, 31 throat and voice specialists from the European Laryngological Society and the Union of the European Phoniatricians came together. They used a voting process, known as the Delphi process, to agree upon specific terms for the various surgical techniques used in treating BVFI.

The experts approved 14 statements defining different categories of surgery on the arytenoid (a part of the larynx) and the vocal cords. The categories included procedures like total and partial removal of the arytenoid, different types of cordectomy (removal of the vocal cords), and cordotomy (cutting of the vocal cords). They also defined additional terms to describe specific aspects of these procedures.

By creating this standardized language, the researchers hope to improve the way these procedures are reported in medical literature and in clinical practice. This could ultimately make it easier to compare the effectiveness of different treatments for BVFI.

FAQs

  1. What is the purpose of creating a standardized language for describing endoscopic procedures for BVFI?
  2. How were the specific terms for the various surgical techniques agreed upon by the specialists?
  3. What impact can the standardized language have on the reporting of these procedures in medical literature and clinical practice?

Doctor’s Tip

In order to fully recover from vocal cord surgery, it is important to follow your doctor’s post-operative instructions carefully. This may include avoiding talking or whispering for a certain period of time, staying hydrated, and participating in speech therapy sessions to help regain strength and flexibility in your vocal cords. It is also important to attend all follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your progress and address any concerns. Remember to be patient with yourself during the recovery process, as it may take some time before your voice fully returns to normal.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended vocal cord surgery include those with Bilateral Vocal Fold Immobility (BVFI) who have difficulty breathing, speaking, or swallowing due to the limited movement of their vocal cords. These patients may have conditions such as vocal cord paralysis, neurological disorders, traumatic injuries, or tumors affecting the larynx. In severe cases where conservative treatments like speech therapy or vocal cord injections are not effective, surgery may be necessary to improve the patient’s quality of life and restore vocal function.

Timeline

Before vocal cord surgery:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms of Bilateral Vocal Fold Immobility, such as hoarseness, difficulty breathing, and swallowing.
  2. Patient undergoes a thorough evaluation by a throat and voice specialist, which may include laryngoscopy to assess the condition of the vocal cords.
  3. Treatment options are discussed, including the possibility of vocal cord surgery.
  4. Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and preparation for surgery.

After vocal cord surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes vocal cord surgery, which may involve procedures such as cordectomy or cordotomy.
  2. Patient is closely monitored post-operatively for any complications or side effects.
  3. Patient undergoes voice therapy and rehabilitation to help improve vocal function after surgery.
  4. Patient follows up with their throat and voice specialist for regular evaluations to assess the success of the surgery and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about vocal cord surgery include:

  1. What specific type of vocal cord surgery do you recommend for my condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery?
  3. What is the expected outcome of the surgery in terms of improving my vocal function?
  4. How long is the recovery period after vocal cord surgery?
  5. Will I need speech therapy or other forms of rehabilitation after the surgery?
  6. How many times have you performed this type of surgery, and what is your success rate?
  7. Are there alternative treatments to surgery that I should consider?
  8. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions or restrictions?
  9. What is the long-term prognosis for my vocal function after the surgery?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes I should make to support the success of the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Dronkers EAC, Al Yaghchi C, Lechien JR, Sittel C, Geneid A. Journal: Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2025 Feb;282(2):937-944. doi: 10.1007/s00405-024-09133-7. Epub 2025 Jan 2. PMID: 39747669