The vocal cords are situated in the larynx (voice box), and they vibrate together in order to create sound or speech. Lesions that occur on the vocal cord can be either benign or malignant (cancerous).
The most common benign vocal cord lesions are vocal cord cysts, polyps, nodules, and contact ulcers. A vocal cyst is a firm fluid collection that occurs inside the vocal cord. It is usually the response to injury or vocal abuse. After repetitive misuse, fluid within the vocal cord walls itself off and forms a cyst. The size of the cyst will affect the degree of disruption to normal vocal cord vibration and associated hoarseness.
Diagnosis
An endoscopy of the larynx is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure performed using a local, topical anesthetic during your office visit. During the procedure, a thin, flexible camera, known as an endoscope, is passed through the nostril to provide a detailed view of the nasal passages, sinuses and larynx. This allows for a complete evaluation of these structures, the results of which can be digitally recorded and reviewed with the patient immediately after the procedure.
If a mass or lesion is found in your throat or on your vocal cords, we can schedule to take a biopsy and remove the lesion for you in an expeditious and personalized manner for rapid diagnosis and resolution of the problem.
