Vocal Cord Injections: Who Are They Right For?
Your voice is a vital part of who you are. Whether you use it to sing, speak, teach, or simply communicate with loved ones, having a healthy, strong voice is essential. But what happens when voice problems arise? One effective treatment option for certain voice disorders is vocal cord injection therapy.
In this blog post, we’ll explain what vocal cord injections are, how they work, and who might benefit from them.
What Are Vocal Cord Injections?
Vocal cord injections are a medical procedure used to address specific voice and swallowing issues. This treatment involves injecting a specialized substance directly into the vocal cords to improve their function. The injected material can vary based on the patient's needs and can include:
Collagen or fat to restore volume in the vocal cords.
Hyaluronic acid-based fillers to enhance elasticity.
Botulinum toxin (Botox) to reduce excessive muscle activity in certain voice disorders.
The injection is typically performed under local anesthesia and may be done in a clinic or operating room setting, depending on the complexity of the case. Patients usually return to their regular activities shortly after the procedure.
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How Do Vocal Cord Injections Work?
The vocal cords play a crucial role in producing sound. They need to come together evenly and vibrate properly to create clear, strong speech or singing. However, various conditions can affect their ability to do so, such as:
Vocal cord paralysis or paresis: When one or both vocal cords don’t move correctly.
Age-related vocal changes: Thinning or weakening of the vocal cords, often called presbylaryngis.
Spasmodic dysphonia: A neurological disorder causing involuntary spasms in the vocal cords.
By injecting a material into the vocal cords, the treatment can:
Restore volume and improve closure for better voice quality.
Relax overactive muscles to reduce spasms or strain.
Enhance vocal strength and clarity.
Who Can Benefit from Vocal Cord Injections?
Vocal cord injections are not for everyone, but they can be life-changing for individuals with specific conditions. You may be a candidate for this procedure if you experience:
Hoarseness or weak voice due to vocal cord atrophy or paralysis.
Breathiness or difficulty projecting your voice, especially as you age.
Voice strain or breaks caused by overactive vocal muscles.
Swallowing difficulties, as vocal cord injections can sometimes help improve airway protection.
Before undergoing this procedure, you’ll need a thorough evaluation by an ENT specialist. This often includes a detailed voice history, a physical examination, and a laryngoscopy (a procedure that allows your doctor to see your vocal cords in action).
What to Expect During and After the Procedure
Vocal cord injection therapy is generally well-tolerated, with minimal discomfort. During the procedure:
You’ll be seated comfortably, and a local anesthetic may be applied to your throat.
Your ENT specialist will use a thin needle, either through your mouth or neck, to deliver the injection.
The process typically takes about 20-30 minutes.
After the injection, you may experience mild soreness or a temporary change in your voice, but most patients notice significant improvement within days. Your doctor will provide specific aftercare instructions and may schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.
Schedule a Consultation for Vocal Cord Injections
If you’ve been struggling with voice or swallowing problems, vocal cord injections can offer:
Non-invasive symptom relief with quick recovery.
Tailored treatment options to address your unique condition.
Improved quality of life, allowing you to communicate and engage with confidence.
At ENT Family, we’re here to help you explore your options and find the best treatment for your needs. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate care and the latest medical advancements to restore your voice and improve your well-being.
Address: 3911 Hollywood Blvd#201, Hollywood, FL 33021, United States
Phone: 754-888-1368
Email: info@entfamily.com
REFERENCES
John Hopkins Medicine. (2021, August 8). Presbylaryngis (vocal fold atrophy). Johns Hopkins Medicine. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/presbylaryngis
UCI Health. (n.d.). Vocal cord injection: University Voice & Swallowing Center: UCI Health otolaryngology: Ear, nose and throat: UCI Health: Orange County, CA. https://www.ucihealth.org/medical-services/ear-nose-throat-ent/voice-swallowing/vocal-cord-injection
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