Can recurrent vocal cord polyps turn into cancer?
Recurrent vocal cord polyps can potentially lead to cancerous changes. Vocal cord polyps are caused by improper use of the voice over an extended period, such as yelling loudly or excessive fatigue, leading to changes in the vocal cords. Generally, it affects one vocal cord and causes the patient to experience persistent, progressive hoarseness. During an examination with an electronic laryngoscope, a neoplasm can be observed on the anterior-middle third of the affected vocal cord. This neoplasm is smooth, pale white or pale red, and has a thin stalk, leading to incomplete closure of the vocal folds and subsequent hoarseness. In terms of treatment, conservative methods are ineffective. The patient requires a microlaryngoscopy under general anesthesia to remove the vocal cord polyp. Postoperative care includes antibiotics to prevent local infections, and the patient can typically recover and be discharged about a week after the surgery.
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