Can vocal cord polyps be examined by B-ultrasound?

Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
Updated on September 26, 2024
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Vocal cord polyps are benign space-occupying lesions of the vocal cords, mainly appearing as polypoid protrusions on the surface of the free edge of the vocal cords, sometimes with a thin stalk, and sometimes with a broad base. In clinical practice, vocal cord polyps are primarily examined using a laryngoscope, and can also be assessed via CT and MRI. However, ultrasound is not used to examine vocal cord polyps, as ultrasound produces many artifacts and the neck’s muscles and soft tissues are very rich, preventing ultrasound from correctly or fully displaying the condition of the vocal cord polyps. In summary, ultrasound is not used clinically to examine vocal cord polyps.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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How to conservatively treat vocal cord polyps?

Vocal cord polyps are a relatively common ENT disorder. In terms of treatment, there are generally two types: conservative treatment and surgical treatment. If the vocal cord polyps are small and the clinical symptoms are not particularly severe, conservative treatment is considered first. Common treatments include oral medication, which can be complemented with nebulization therapy. Most patients can gradually alleviate symptoms with medication. Additionally, voice training can be conducted to learn the correct and reasonable use of the voice. In daily life, it is necessary to avoid overuse of the voice as much as possible and to regularly re-examine the laryngoscopic observations to monitor any changes in the vocal cord polyps.

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Written by Zhang Jun
Otolaryngology
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Can vocal cord polyps eat bayberry?

People with vocal cord polyps should avoid eating bayberries, as bayberries are acidic and can aggravate acid reflux after consumption. The acid fluid and vapors can also irritate the throat, leading to the enlargement or recurrence of vocal cord polyps. Vocal cord polyps are generally caused by prolonged improper use of the voice, such as yelling loudly, excessive fatigue, and irritation from acid reflux. These polyps can cause the voice to become hoarse and progressively worsen. During examination, a pale, lychee-like mass can be found on the anterior-middle third of one vocal cord, leading to incomplete closure of the vocal cords. Regarding treatment, medication is ineffective for vocal cord polyps. Patients need to undergo a vocal cord polyp removal surgery under supported laryngoscopy. The surgery requires hospitalization and general anesthesia, and postoperative antibiotics are used to prevent local infection. Recovery is usually complete within about a week, allowing for discharge from the hospital.

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Written by Xu Qing Tian
Otolaryngology
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How to detect vocal cord polyps

Vocal cord polyps are common and frequently occurring diseases in otolaryngology. How to examine vocal cord polyps primarily involves assessing the patient's symptoms. For instance, if a patient develops vocal cord polyps, they will first exhibit symptoms of hoarseness. If the hoarseness persists and cannot be alleviated, an electronic laryngoscopy should be conducted initially. By using an electronic laryngoscope, the movement of the vocal cords and the condition of the vocal cord mucosa can be observed on a display screen, thereby identifying the presence of vocal cord polyps. For patients with vocal cord polyps, it is important in daily life to reduce voice use, avoid excessive vocalization, and lessen harmful habits such as smoking and drinking to prevent the occurrence of vocal cord polyps.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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What should I do if I have a vocal cord polyp with a cold?

Patients with vocal cord polyps who catch a cold may experience worsening of their condition, which could lead to further hoarseness, as well as possible nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat, coughing, and phlegm. Therefore, it is necessary to visit an otolaryngologist after the onset of symptoms. Tests such as a complete blood count and laryngoscopy can be performed. Generally, oral medication combined with nebulization treatment can be considered, and regular follow-up examinations are needed to monitor the treatment effects. Most patients will gradually improve with timely medication treatment, but recurring episodes are possible. (Specific medications should be taken under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Can vocal cord polyps be treated conservatively?

Vocal cord polyps are a relatively common ENT disorder. For treatment, conservative treatment can be considered for some patients. If the vocal cord polyps are small and the symptoms of hoarseness are not particularly noticeable, conservative treatment with medication can be initially considered. Common treatments include oral traditional Chinese medicine, combined with nebulization therapy. It's also suggested to undergo voice training concurrently. Generally, with formal treatment lasting about two weeks, symptoms of hoarseness can gradually improve, and polyps may recede in some patients. However, if the vocal cord polyps are particularly large and the symptoms of hoarseness are very noticeable, and conservative treatment proves ineffective, then surgical treatment should be considered.