Publication:

Comparative study of benign vocal fold lesions in a tertiary health centre

Background The present study was carried out to analyze the factors associated with different vocal fold lesions and to diagnose various benign vocal fold lesions at an early stage by their demographic profile and clinical presentations.

Methods Patients with history of hoarseness of voice as a predominant symptom, cough, pain, foreign body sensation, dryness of throat and with a dominant history of vocal abuse, smoking or alcoholism were included in the study. Patients with acute infections, carcinomas, vocal cord palsy or other neurological diseases were excluded from the study.

Results The males comprised 66.7% of patients in the study and the commonest age group involved was 30-40 years. Vocal abuse was the leading risk factor in 80% patients. Hoarseness of voice was the predominant symptom in 83% patients followed by vocal fatigue. Bilateral vocal fold involvement was seen in 50% of the cases. All vocal nodule cases had bilateral vocal fold involvement. The vocal nodules were the commonest lesion seen (35%). Intra-operative and post-operative use of intravenous steroids was also found beneficial. Statistical analysis was done using Chi-square test. Significance level was assessed with P value <0.05. The bilateral involvement in all the vocal nodule cases was found significant.

Conclusions Voice therapy and cessation of smoking and alcohol can significantly reduce the incidence of these benign vocal fold lesions. It’s not only surgery that’s important in managing vocal fold lesions, but the post-operative care equally plays a vital role.