Our Summary

This research paper investigates a type of fungus called Blastomyces, and a disease it causes known as blastomycosis, with a focus on the impact of this disease on the larynx (the part of the throat that holds the vocal cords). The paper likely discusses the symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and possibly the prevalence and risk factors of laryngeal blastomycosis.

FAQs

  1. What is the focus of the article related to vocal cord surgery?
  2. How is blastomycosis related to larynx or vocal cord surgery?
  3. What is the correlation between Blastomyces and vocal cord issues?

Doctor’s Tip

After vocal cord surgery, it is important to follow the post-operative care instructions provided by your healthcare provider. This may include resting your voice, avoiding straining or overusing your voice, staying hydrated, and attending any follow-up appointments as scheduled. It is also important to communicate any concerns or changes in your voice to your healthcare provider. Following these recommendations will help promote healing and improve your recovery process.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for vocal cord surgery include those with benign vocal cord lesions such as vocal nodules, polyps, cysts, or granulomas. Other indications for vocal cord surgery may include vocal cord paralysis, vocal cord cancer, or severe voice disorders that do not respond to other forms of treatment. Patients with certain medical conditions or who have experienced trauma to the larynx may also be candidates for vocal cord surgery. Ultimately, the decision to undergo vocal cord surgery is made on a case-by-case basis by a qualified otolaryngologist or laryngologist.

Timeline

Before vocal cord surgery:

  1. Patient may experience symptoms such as hoarseness, difficulty speaking or singing, or pain in the throat.
  2. Patient may undergo a consultation with an otolaryngologist (ENT) who will assess their vocal cords and recommend surgery if necessary.
  3. Patient will undergo pre-operative testing and evaluation to ensure they are healthy enough for surgery.
  4. Patient will receive instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including fasting before the procedure.

After vocal cord surgery:

  1. Patient will wake up in the recovery room and may experience some discomfort or soreness in the throat.
  2. Patient will be monitored for a period of time before being discharged home.
  3. Patient will be given instructions on how to care for their throat post-surgery, including voice rest and avoiding certain activities.
  4. Patient may need to attend follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor their healing progress and vocal cord function.
  5. Patient may undergo voice therapy to help rehabilitate their voice and improve vocal cord function.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with vocal cord surgery?
  2. What is the success rate of this type of surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process and what can I expect during that time?
  4. Will I need to undergo speech therapy after the surgery?
  5. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that I should consider before undergoing surgery?
  6. How will the surgery affect my voice and vocal range?
  7. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  8. How many similar surgeries have you performed in the past and what is your level of experience with this procedure?
  9. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions or restrictions?
  10. What is the long-term prognosis for my vocal health after this surgery?

Reference

Authors: Fenwick AJ, McKittrick ND, Zhang SX. Journal: J Clin Microbiol. 2019 Oct 23;57(11):e00409-19. doi: 10.1128/JCM.00409-19. Print 2019 Nov. PMID: 31645409