Vocal Cord
Nodules and Polyps
Vocal overuse and abuse are common causes of
vocal nodules. People who use their voice a great
deal daily - for example, teachers, professional
vocalists, lecturers, or members of the clergy
- run the risk of having nodules on their vocal
cords. These nodules are similar to calluses commonly
found on your hand or foot. Treatment involves
vocal therapy with voice behavioral modification
techniques. A small number of people who do not
respond to vocal therapy may undergo surgery to
restore their voice. Microscopic surgical techniques
- a precise method to remove the nodule from the
vocal cord while preserving the underlying normal
tissue - are used to restore normal voice functioning.
Vocal polyps or cysts are similar to a blister
that you would find on your finger or heel. These
growths interfere with normal voice functioning
and produce a hoarse, breathy or weak voice. Polyps
develop from voice overuse such as prolonged singing,
shouting, or loud talking; constant inhalation
of irritants such as industrial fumes or cigarette
smoke; or a chronic laryngeal allergic reaction.
Vocal therapy and voice behavioral modification
techniques are recommended, but surgery, involving
microdissection
techniques, is frequently required to remove the
polyps. Penn Center for Voice at Pennsylvania
Hospital surgeons specialize in maintaining the
outer lining of the vocal cord to preserve your
pre-injury voice functioning.
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