Vocal Cord Cyst

A saclike growth on the vocal cord that usually develops as a result of persistent irritation such as from smoking or GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISORDER (GERD), which may flush the VOCAL CORDS with gastric juices when an individual is lying down and especially when he or she is sleeping. A vocal cord cyst often contains fluid though can contain solid tissue. A cyst can develop deep within the vocal folds, causing significant changes or difficulties with the voice. The primary symptom of vocal cord cyst is hoarseness. Though vocal cord cysts are noncancerous, otolaryngologists generally operate to remove them because they tend to enlarge. Endoscopic surgery allows the otolaryngologist to remove most vocal cord cysts through the THROAT. Recovery from the surgery takes two to four weeks; most people benefit from follow-up VOICE THERAPY to teach methods for preserving vocal cord integrity and voice quality.