Vocal cord lesions arise due to a multitude of reasons. One of the most common causes is vocal abuse or voice abuse. It is commonly found amongst teachers or people who generally have to shout or speak loudly for prolonged periods. Usually non-threatening, if detected early, it can be treated with medication. However, if non-surgical treatment is ineffective in alleviating hoarseness or vocal cord inflammation, a Microlaryngeal surgery may be recommended.
Microscopic laryngeal surgery, also known as microlaryngoscopy, is the most precise means of visualizing and operating on the vocal folds. It allows the use of the two most essential toolsets in laryngeal surgery: the operative microscope, and microlaryngeal dissection instruments. The surgery is performed through a laryngoscope- an instrument inserted via the mouth, without the need to make skin incisions.
Why do I need Microlaryngeal Surgery?
Microlaryngoscopy is a surgical procedure for evaluating and removing various lesions of the vocal folds, such as polyps, cysts, cancer, papilloma, and Reinke’s oedema, among others.
Some of the most common symptoms of vocal cord lesions or growths are:
- Hoarseness of voice
- Vocal cord inflammation
- Change in voice
- Throat pain while excessive talking or talking loudly
- Difficulty breathing
- The sensation of an object stuck in the throat
What happens during Microlaryngeal surgery?
If a vocal cord lesion is large or positioned in an area that is difficult to reach, a microlaryngeal surgery may be performed to remove or excise the lesion. This procedure typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes and takes place in the operating room.
Microlaryngoscopy is performed while the patient is under general anaesthesia, administered and monitored by an anesthesiologist working closely with the surgeon.
During a microlaryngoscopy, the surgeon accesses the vocal cords through the mouth using a laryngoscope. A laryngoscope provides high-quality, magnified images that show every detail of the vocal cords and surrounding areas. The surgeon then removes the lesion using tiny surgical instruments. No stitches are required, and you can expect to go home the same day. As an extra safety measure for the patient, the lesion is sent for a biopsy.
Despite the use of general anaesthesia, it remains an ambulatory procedure – patients are allowed to go home the same day as the procedure. Pain after surgery is not too bad and rarely requires more than over-the-counter pain relievers.
After surgery, vocal cord dysfunction improves over time. Voice rest is recommended for the patient for a few days. It allows the vocal cords to heal properly after surgery.
Risks of Microlaryngeal Surgery
Just like with any other surgery, the risk of general anaesthesia is present. However, the chances of complications arising from anaesthesia are rare.
Microlaryngeal surgery complications are uncommon. However, some complications include:
- Temporary tongue numbness or tingling.
- Tooth damage, particularly if crowns, caps, or veneers are present, or if the teeth are in poor condition, to begin with.
However, these risks are minimised by doctors, ensuring that complications are prevented/ minimised during the procedure.