Will vocal cord cyst recur even after MLS surgery?

Question

Hello doctor,

My wife, aged 32, has to talk a lot due to her profession. She has been diagnosed with a vocal cord cyst. The doctor has recommended surgery. I want to know a few details. In this type of MLS, what is the success rate? Will the patient get normal voice after surgery? Can this cyst be malignant? Is voice therapy needed after surgery? What is the chance of recurrence? What precautions should be maintained after surgery? Can this cyst be cured with medicine? Please suggest. I have attached the endoscopy report and prescription.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thanks for briefing the problem in concern. I had a detailed look at the reports you have sent (attachment removed to protect patient identity). This does look like a vocal cord cyst. The success rate depends on various factors like the completeness of the resection by the surgeon and to what extent the patient has been able to follow the precautions mentioned post-surgery, such as vocal hygiene and voice rest. Yes, your voice will become normal after a well-done surgery. And with the appearance, it is very unlikely that the cyst is malignant. The chance of recurrence is above 50 % if adequate absolute voice rest for two weeks is not given post-surgery. Absolute voice rest for the next two weeks post-surgery. Avoid oily, spicy food items, fizzy beverages, etc. Keep a strict diet and voice rest between lectures. Gargling is not advised post-surgery as it does not allow the vocal cords to heal adequately. A vocal cord cyst is best removed via MLS (micro laryngeal surgery) either by conventional technique or laser. Medical management has no definitive role to play here. I hope this helps.