Our Summary

This study is about understanding how different settings on a CO2 laser, used in a type of surgery called flexible endoscopic surgery, affect the tissues being targeted. Researchers used a technique that visualizes heat effects to examine how changes in laser settings – such as how long the laser is used, how much power it uses, and how far away it is from the tissue – affect the depth of the cut and the surrounding heat damage to the tissue. They tested this on a gel that behaves like tissue and then compared the results to actual human vocal cord tissue to confirm the accuracy of their model.

The study found that the length of time the laser is used has the most significant effect on the heat damage to surrounding tissues. If the laser tip is further from the tissue, the cut is shallower but the surrounding heat damage is greater. Using the laser in short, powerful pulses can make deeper cuts. The model they used was a fair representation of how the laser affects actual vocal cord tissue.

The researchers concluded that to minimize damage to surrounding tissue, surgeons could use the laser in short, powerful pulses and keep it close to the tissue. If they want to evaporate the tissue, they could use less power and hold the laser further away from the tissue for a broader but shallower effect.

FAQs

  1. What is the primary focus of this study on vocal cord surgery?
  2. How do different settings on a CO2 laser used in flexible endoscopic surgery affect the tissues being targeted?
  3. What are the researchers’ conclusions on how to minimize damage to surrounding tissue during this type of vocal cord surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about vocal cord surgery is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including resting your voice and avoiding excessive talking or yelling to allow the vocal cords to heal properly. It is also important to stay hydrated and avoid irritants such as smoking or excessive alcohol consumption, which can hinder the healing process. Lastly, attending follow-up appointments with your doctor and speech therapist is crucial for monitoring your progress and ensuring a successful recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended vocal cord surgery include those with benign or malignant vocal cord lesions, vocal cord paralysis, vocal cord nodules or polyps, laryngeal papillomatosis, or scar tissue on the vocal cords. Surgery may be recommended if conservative treatments such as voice therapy or medication have not been effective in improving vocal function or resolving the underlying issue.

Timeline

  • Patient experiences symptoms such as hoarseness, voice fatigue, difficulty speaking, or vocal cord nodules
  • Patient consults with a doctor and is recommended for vocal cord surgery
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluations, such as laryngoscopy and imaging tests
  • Patient schedules surgery and receives instructions on pre-operative care
  • Patient undergoes vocal cord surgery using a CO2 laser with specific settings determined by the surgeon
  • Patient experiences post-operative symptoms such as sore throat, hoarseness, and difficulty swallowing
  • Patient follows post-operative care instructions, including voice rest and rehabilitation exercises
  • Patient attends follow-up appointments to monitor recovery and voice function
  • Patient gradually resumes normal speaking and singing activities as vocal cords heal
  • Patient experiences improved voice quality and function after vocal cord surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

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

  1. What type of vocal cord surgery are you recommending for me?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery?
  3. How will the CO2 laser be used during the surgery?
  4. What specific settings on the CO2 laser will be used during my surgery?
  5. How will the depth of the cut and surrounding heat damage be minimized during the surgery?
  6. How experienced are you with using the CO2 laser for vocal cord surgery?
  7. What is the expected recovery time and outcome of the surgery?
  8. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider?
  9. How can I prepare for the surgery and what should I expect during the recovery process?
  10. Will there be any long-term effects or changes to my voice after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Schimberg AS, Klabbers TM, Wellenstein DJ, Heutink F, Honings J, van Engen-Van Grunsven I, Verdaasdonk RM, Takes RP, van den Broek GB. Journal: Laryngoscope. 2020 Nov;130(11):E680-E685. doi: 10.1002/lary.28518. Epub 2020 Feb 5. PMID: 32022931