The larynx is an organ in the throat with three main functions, the production of sound, the facilitation of breathing and the closure the airway during swallowing to prevent aspiration. Disorders in the larynx can often cause injuries to the vocal cords. The vocal cords are located in the area of the larynx, with the vibration of which the voice is produced. Any disturbance in them may interfere with the normal production of the voice. These include the existence of polyps, nodules, cysts and neoplasms in the vocal cords, disorders that are treated with Microlaryngoscopy.
Vocal cord polyps
Repeated injuries to the vocal cords due to vigorous or adverse use of the voice favor the appearance of vocal cord polyps, a mass that usually manifests itself in the middle of the vocal cord. The appearance of this mass is not a sign of cancer, as it is not a pre-cancerous lesion, but it prevents the smooth conduction of the voice with hoarseness. The same symptoms are apparent by the presence of nodules or calluses on the vocal cords, with the parallel appearance of dryness or the sensation of a “foreign body”.
Vocal cord cysts & neoplasms
The formation of a cyst in the main area of the vocal cord is caused as a result of the blockage of the mucous glands of the vocal cords. The cyst can be located near the surface of the chord, or in a deeper area, and depending on its location, the degree to which it interferes with the normal production of the voice is determined. The existence of neoplasms in the vocal cords, which are responsible for the manifestation of malignancy, poses obstacles to the mucous membrane of the vocal cords. All these conditions are diagnosed and effectively treated with Microlaryngoscopy.
Microlaryngoscopy: Benefits & Process
Microlaryngoscopy allows the thorough control of the larynx area and the immediate visualization of any problematic area, combined with the use of microsurgical tools for the treatment of pathologies related to the vocal cords. This method is the most accurate means of visualizing and operating on the vocal cords. It allows the use of the two most basic sets of tools in laryngeal surgery, the operating microscope and microsurgical resection tools.
The laryngoscope is an instrument that is inserted through the oral cavity, without the need to make incisions in the skin. This instrument allows direct visualization of the inside of the larynx with the help of a high-definition camera that provides the possibility of image enlargement. In this way, the pathological cause that causes disorders in the larynx is identified, and then its restoration follows. The restoration is carried out by ENT Surgeon in Athens Dr. Olga Papadopoulou either with conventional surgical tools, or with the use of Laser.
Microlaryngoscopy & Biopsy
During Microlaryngoscopy the image of the inside of the larynx is enlarged, allowing the removal of lesions and small tumors in the area of the larynx and vocal cords, as well as taking a sample for biopsy. In case that the biopsy shows evidence of damage, which requires further treatment, a second procedure is indicated so that the pathological condition can be effectively treated. The operation does not cause pain or leave a scar.
Postoperatively, the administration of painkillers is not necessary. Patients are allowed to eat normally, but it is recommended to avoid hot and spicy foods for about 1 week. At the same time, it is important to rest their vocal cords, avoiding speaking for about 5-7 days after the procedure.