Do you feel a change in your voice, a hoarseness, or difficulty speaking? Sometimes the cause of these things can be a small problem with our vocal cords. So, in times like these, a special test and treatment method that doctors use to see exactly what the problem is is called microlaryngoscopy. Don't be afraid, although the name is a little complicated, this is not as big a deal as you think. Let's talk about this in detail.
What is Microlaryngoscopy?
Simply put, this is surgery. But in this case, no cuts are made in your neck. The doctor uses a special instrument to examine the condition of your vocal cords. A microscope attached to this instrument can clearly and magnified even the smallest changes in the vocal cords.
During this examination, the doctor can remove any growths, such as tumors or lesions, on the vocal cords. This procedure is also used to correct other movement disorders or narrowings in the larynx.
Why would I want to have this kind of surgery?
A doctor usually recommends this surgery if they see any abnormalities in your larynx. This is both a test and a treatment. This will become clearer to you when you look at the table below.
| Problem/Condition | Simply put... |
|---|---|
| Noncancerous vocal fold lesions | Remove things like nodules, polyps, or cysts that occur in people who use their voices excessively. |
| Vocal fold motion disorders | Identify and sometimes treat conditions such as vocal fold paralysis. |
| Laryngeal cancer | If you suspect there are signs of cancer, take a small piece of tissue (biopsy) from that area and have it examined. |
| Subglottic stenosis | Treat a narrowing of the trachea below the vocal cords. |
How exactly is this surgery performed?
This is what happens. First, you are completely anesthetized. This means you are asleep and you don't feel anything. Then the doctor inserts a special tube (rigid tube) through your mouth and into your larynx. This tube allows the doctor to see directly into your vocal cords.
Next, a microscope and light are used to examine the vocal cords for any changes or lumps. If a lump or tumor needs to be removed, very small surgical instruments (such as small scissors or forceps) are inserted through the tube and the lump is removed. In some cases, a laser is also used to remove these lumps.
The most important thing is that since all of this is done inside the mouth, there are no cuts or scars on the outside of your body.
How should I prepare before surgery?
Since this surgery is performed under general anesthesia , you will need to prepare a little the day before. It is very important to follow these steps exactly.
- Avoid smoking: If you smoke, you should stop at least one day before surgery. However, for best results, it is best to stop smoking two weeks before surgery and for at least two weeks after surgery.
- Stop eating and drinking: You will usually need to stop eating and drinking anything 8 hours before surgery. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on this.
- Be informed about your medications: Tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including vitamins and nutritional supplements. You may be advised to stop taking certain medications a few days before surgery.
What to expect after surgery?
After the surgery, you may feel some soreness or discomfort in your throat for a few days. This is normal. You can eat normally the same day or the next day. You can resume your normal activities within a few days.
Giving your voice a rest is a must!
This is the most important and difficult part after surgery. You need to give your vocal cords time to heal. Otherwise, the surgery will not give you the results you want. Your doctor will tell you to stop using your voice completely for a few days or weeks. This means that you are completely forbidden to do the following:
- Talking
- Whispering softly ( Many people think whispering softly is good for the voice, but it actually puts more strain on the vocal cords. )
- The throat
- Coughing loudly
- Singing songs
When will I get the results?
After you wake up from the anesthesia, the doctor will explain to you what was seen during the surgery. If a suspicious lump or piece of tissue is seen, a small piece of it will be taken and sent to a lab for testing. This is called a biopsy . It may take a few days for the report to arrive.
The main goal of this surgery is to identify the exact cause of your voice problem, treat it, and improve the quality of your voice. When performed by an experienced doctor, this surgery is a very safe procedure.
Take-Home Message
- Microlaryngoscopy is a minor surgical procedure performed inside the mouth, without making any incisions outside the body.
- This method is used to diagnose and treat problems such as hoarseness of the voice, vocal cord tumors, and movement disorders.
- It is very important to fast before surgery and follow the doctor's instructions.
- The most important part of the recovery process after surgery is to give your voice complete rest until the doctor tells you to.
- If you have any further questions about this, don't hesitate to ask your doctor.
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