Vocal polyps are benign fluid filled lesions that are most commonly found in adults although they can occur in children. Polyps develop as a result of repeated vocal fold trauma that is often associated with excessive muscle tension. Polyps tend to grow on only one vocal fold however, they can appear on both vocal folds. Polyps present in different forms including those that resemble a blister like appearance (known as sessile polyps) and those that are attached to a stalk (known as pedunculated polyps).
Treatment
Management options for polyps include voice therapy and surgery. Voice therapy can be effective as a single treatment approach for the resolution of polyps and when compared to surgery, is associated with greater gains in quality of life. Prior to voice therapy, it is important to get a diagnosis of the polyp type from an Ear Nose and Throat Surgeon as this will impact the Speech Pathologist's selection of therapeutic technique. In cases where surgery is required, pre- and post operative voice therapy is recommended. For more information on voice therapy please visit our voice therapy page. If you are looking for voice therapy treatment of vocal polyps please contact us to book an appointment with our Speech Pathologist.
