Vocal fold nodules
Vocal fold nodules are the most common benign vocal fold lesions, and are sometimes referred to as “singers nodes.” They are usually bilateral and occur at the junction of the anterior 1/3 and posterior 2/3 of the vocal folds. They may vary significantly in size. Nodules may be acute or chronic; chronic, or “mature” nodules are similar to calluses within the vocal fold tissue. Vocal characteristics include hoarseness, breathiness, and lowered pitch.
Prognosis
Vocal cord nodules, although they can certainly impair one’s speaking and singing ability, rarely harm one’s general health. Indeed, the psychological trauma of being diagnosed with nodules — a trauma affecting those especially whose professional success depends on consistently producing a rich and powerful vocal tone (e.g. singers, actors, broadcasters) — typically dwarfs the limited systemic and even otorhinolaryngological effects
Treatment
Voice therapy is often the first step in resolving nodules; teatment is usually 4 – 8 weeks. Results may vary depending on how long the nodules have been present and patient compliance with the therapy program. Surgical removal may be appropriate in some cases.
vocal fold polyp
A vocal fold polyp is a fluid-filled lesion that may occur unilaterally or bilaterally. They may vary in size and will often be classified as either “sessile” (close to the tissue, like a blister) or pedunculated” (attached to a slim stalk). They are most commonly thought to be caused by vocal abuse or trauma, cigarette smoking, or vocal fold hemorrhage, but the exact cause is unknown. Vocal characteristics often include hoarseness, breathiness, diplophonia (audible perception of two distinct pitches), and stridor (noisy breathing).
Treatment
A vocal fold polyp usually does not respond to voice therapy; however, your physician may recommend voice therapy to clear the surgical field (reduce swelling and irritation). Surgical removal will most likely be recommended.
Vocal Fold Cysts
Vo cal fold cysts are fluid-filled growths that may be congenital or acquired. They may appear on only one or both of the vocal folds. Vocal quality consistent with a vocal cord cyst may include hoarseness, breathiness, and voice and pitch breaks
Treatment
Vocal fold cysts generally do not respond to voice therapy, and surgical removal will most likely be recommended depending on the severity of the vocal problem; however, your physician may recommend voice therapy pre-surgically to clear the surgical field (reduce swelling and irritation) or post-surgically to address any residual hoarseness.
Reinke’s Edema
Reinke’s Edema occurs when the membranous portion of the vocal folds become filled with fluid. It may be unilateral or bilateral, and when it becomes very severe, it is often referred to as Polypoid Degeneration. Risk factors include long-term smoking and chronic vocal overuse or misuse. Vocal characteristics consistent with Reinke’s Edema include significantly lowered pitch and severe hoarseness.
Treatment
Reinke’s edema does not generally improve with voice therapy, and surgical removal is often recommended. Pre- or post-surgical voice therapy may be recommended by your physician.
ENT London is one of UK’s leading Nose Surgeon London clinics, and can be contacted on 0207 580 6970.