Vocal Cord Polyps

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What Is a Vocal Cord Polyp?

Vocal cord polyps are benign lesions that can grow on the vocal cord. Unlike polyps in the colon, the term polyp, when used to describe something on the vocal cord, means a benign, inflammatory growth that is VERY unlikely to turn into a cancer.

A vocal cord polyp is different from vocal nodules and vocal cord cysts. A polyp is more likely to only be on one side of the vocal cord, and on the inside edge. A cyst is often away from the edge and embedded deeper in the vocal cord. Nodules tend to be on both vocal cords, side by side.

• What are vocal cord polyp symptoms?

  Hoarseness or changes in the voice are the primary symptoms.

• Who gets vocal cord polys?

  Anyone can develop a vocal polyp.

• How are they diagnosed?

  Stroboscopy and laryngoscopyare the best ways to see a vocal polyp in the office to make a definitive diagnosis.

• What causes vocal cord polyps?

  Possibly some trauma, but they are inflammatory by nature.

• How are vocal cord polyps treated?

  While voice therapy can help a patient use their voice better, we typically recommend surgery to remove vocal polyps. The extra tissue tends to interfere with how the vocal cords vibrate and polyps tend to make people pretty hoarse.

• What are the risks if they’re not treated?

  As mentioned, the cancer risk is low, but a hoarse voice may get worse.

• What is the prognosis/outlook?

  Generally, the prognosis is very good. With surgical treatment and management, it is very likely that the patient will restore their voice completely.

SCHEDULING AN APPOINTMENT

If you have hoarseness or think you may have a vocal cord polyp, please schedule an appointment through the link below or call us at (312) 996-9583 to see our laryngologist. Dr. H. Steven Sims. We accept all forms of health insurance.