What are vocal cord nodule??

• Vocal cord nodules are benign (noncancerous) growths on both vocal cords that are caused by vocal abuse.

• We can see it in free edge of the vocal fold

• Over time, repeated abuse of the vocal cords results in soft, swollen spots on each vocal cord.

• Vocal fold lesions are a common cause of hoarseness.

• Singers.

Predisposing Factors

• thyroid disease.• Smokers.• caffeine use, and/or use of

prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medications.

• vocal hygiene.• most often observed in women

aged 20-50 years

hoarsenessbreathinessa "scratchy" voiceharshnessshooting pain from ear to eara "lump in the throat" sensationneck paindecreased pitch rangevoice and body fatigue

Signs & Symptoms

1- a voice evaluation by a speech-language pathologist (SLP).

2- possibly a neurological examination.

3- Videostrobo-laryngoscopy

Diagnosing

-Keep away from predisposing factors. ( voice rest ).

-Speech therapy.

- Surgical intervention . If nodule are very large or have existed for a long time. (Microlaryngoscopic removal )

Treatment

-tongue numbness.

- altered taste.

-minor trauma to the teeth, oral cavity, and pharynx during rigid laryngoscopy.

- worsened voice quality, bleeding, infection

Complications

-treatment often results in vocal improvement.

- In 1996, Bastian reported his personal surgical series of 62 singers who had undergone microsurgery , Reportedly, all singers within the series were able to return to a level of public singing at least equal to that experienced preoperatively.

Outcome & prognosis