Vocal Fold Cyst
What is a Cyst?
Vocal fold cysts are benign (non-cancerous) fluid-filled lesions. They can be present from birth or develop later. They are frequently observed unilaterally but can rarely be found in both vocal folds. By occupying space beneath the vocal fold mucosa, they disrupt the complete closure of the vocal folds and impede their healthy vibration.
What Are the Symptoms of a Vocal Fold Cyst?
Symptoms vary depending on the size of the cyst. Patients typically have a breathy and diplophonic voice. Sometimes, severe hoarseness may also be observed.
How Is a Vocal Fold Cyst Treated?
Since these cysts do not respond to voice therapy, permanent treatment is only possible through surgery. This surgery is performed through the mouth as a standard vocal fold operation with the aid of a microscope. Sometimes, a short period of voice therapy before treatment may be recommended to reduce vocal fold inflammation and poor voice use habits. However, the primary role of voice therapy in the treatment of vocal fold cyst patients is to aid in post-operative recovery.
Vocal fold cysts almost always respond well to surgery and largely heal. This recovery is expected to be near complete, especially in patients who complete voice therapy and follow recommendations during the post-operative recovery period. If surgery is not performed, the condition does not heal on its own. Sometimes, the voice quality may permanently worsen as a result of the cyst rupturing during voice use. Although this possibility is not very high, if it occurs, achieving recovery will be much more difficult, so treatment should be planned as soon as a diagnosis is made.
