Polyp of a Vocal Cord

Usually a vocal fold polyp is a unilateral mass/swelling which protrude over the surface of the true vocal fold. It can be sessile (broad-based) or pedunculated (attached to a stalk). It can be caused by a voice abuse. A mass effect can arise and end-up with incomplete closure of the true vocal folds during phonation and result in dysphonia (change in voice). Due to repetitive collisions by the polyp, the opposite vocal fold may show reactive lesion (thickening, mild swelling). The microlaryngeal excision is very useful as it removes the polyp and provides the sample for histopathology examination. The most important thing is to rule out malignancy. To allow normal healing and complete recovery a period of voice therapy is necessary after surgery.