Micro Laryngeal Surgery

Microlaryngeal Surgery in Hyderabad

The larynx is the medical term for the upper windpipe where the voice box and vocal cords are situated. Micro laryngeal surgery, otherwise known as micro laryngoscopy, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to operate on the larynx, usually performed on an outpatient basis. It is the most precise means of visualising the vocal cords. This procedure helps to perform a biopsy or remove abnormal growths, or cysts, such as granulomas or benign cysts, in the larynx. Patients who undergo micro laryngeal surgery have a probability of recovering faster than those who undergo traditional laryngeal surgery, and they also have a superior outcome in terms of voice quality. All of the surgery is performed with the help of a laryngoscope, which is an instrument inserted through the mouth. This instrument does not require an incision to be made on the skin.

At CARE Hospitals, our multidisciplinary staff consisting of medical specialists, surgeons, and care providers offer comprehensive diagnosis following international standards and protocols, minimally invasive treatments using state-of-the-art, latest technology, and post-operative care for quicker recovery, shorter hospital stays, and improvement of overall general health. 

Causes and diagnosis

Acute trauma or chronic irritation to the larynx may cause changes in the vocal cords that may lead to polyps, nodules, and granulomas. All polyps, modules, and granulomas cause hoarseness of voice and the development of a breathy voice.

Diagnosis of polyps, nodules and granulomas in the larynx is based on direct or indirect visualisation of the larynx with the help of a mirror or laryngoscope. Microlaryngoscopy is used to perform a biopsy of a particular lesion to exclude carcinoma.  

What is micro laryngeal surgery used for?

Micro laryngeal surgery is used in the evaluation and removal of various lesions of the vocal cords, including (but not limited to) cysts, polyps, papilloma, cancer, and Reinke's oedema.

When to undergo micro laryngeal surgery?

The goal of performing micro laryngoscopy is to obtain visual exposure of the throat region covering the larynx and pharynx for surgical examination, diagnosis, and treatment. Clinical indications for micro laryngoscopy may inform preoperative assessment and anaesthetic planning.

At CARE Hospitals, state-of-the-art diagnostic services using the latest technology and following the international standard of protocols enable proper diagnosis which provide scope for surgical planning. The diagnostic indications of surgical need are: 

• Laryngeal cancer,

• Dysphonia,

• Dysphagia,

• Laryngeal trauma,

• Stridor.

The therapeutic indications of surgical need are:

• Vocal cord fat injection,

• Tracheal dilation,

• Esophageal dilation,

• Ablation or excisional biopsy of pharyngeal glottic lesion,

• Clot evacuation.

What happens during a microlaryngeal surgery?

Microlaryngeal surgery involves the use of the two most essential tools in laryngeal surgery: the operative microscope, and microlaryngeal dissection instruments, which include the use of a laryngoscope. It is a thin lighted tube with a camera attached at the end to allow a surgeon to visualise the area with great precision. It is performed on patients under general anaesthesia, administered and monitored closely by an anaesthesologist working in close collaboration with a surgeon to avoid the danger of gagging or breathing problems.

The laryngoscope is inserted into the throat via the nose to locate the lesion. The abnormal growth is removed using tiny surgical tools that have been threaded through the laryngoscope into the affected area. This procedure permits greater exercise on the accuracy of surgery, focusing only on the affected area, thus, the surrounding area remains unharmed.

What happens after microlaryngeal surgery?

CARE Hospitals offer postoperative end-to-end care for patients undergoing microlaryngeal surgery to ensure faster recovery and improvement of health. The patient may be monitored closely for taking care of the needs arising after the surgery. Patients may experience some level of discomfort and may be administered some over-the-counter pain relieving medications. If required, postoperative voice therapy may also be recommended.

What are the associated risks?

Although this procedure is extremely safe, complications arising from micro laryngeal surgery are rare but can include a few postoperative side effects including temporary numbness, tingling of the tongue, and damage to the teeth. There may also be a risk of developing breathing problems, especially in patients having pre-existing heart or lung problems. There is also a risk of developing an allergic reaction to general anaesthesia or the medications used. The most problematic and challenging complication is the vocal cord scar. 

Pos-operation recovery for Micro Laryngeal Surgery

Recovery after microlaryngeal surgery, which is performed to treat conditions affecting the larynx (voice box), involves several key steps:

• Immediate Post-Operative Period: After the surgery, you will likely spend some time in the recovery room where medical staff will monitor your vital signs and ensure you are waking up comfortably from anesthesia.
• Pain Management: You may experience mild to moderate throat discomfort or pain after microlaryngeal surgery. Your doctor will prescribe pain medications to help manage any discomfort. It's important to take these medications as directed.
• Voice Rest: Resting your voice is crucial during the initial recovery period. Your doctor will likely recommend strict voice rest for a certain period, typically ranging from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the extent of the surgery and your individual healing process.
• Hydration: Staying hydrated is important for promoting healing and preventing complications. Drink plenty of fluids, preferably water, to keep your throat moist and to help reduce irritation.
• Diet: Your doctor may recommend a soft or liquid diet initially to avoid irritation to the throat. Avoid spicy, acidic, or rough-textured foods that may cause discomfort or irritation.
• Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your doctor. These appointments allow your doctor to monitor your progress, assess your healing, and address any concerns or complications that may arise.
• Avoiding Strain: Avoid activities that may strain your throat, such as coughing, clearing your throat forcefully, or lifting heavy objects. These activities can increase pressure on the surgical site and hinder healing.
• Avoiding Irritants: Stay away from irritants such as smoke, dust, and strong fumes that may irritate your throat and slow down the healing process.
• Rest and Recovery: Give your body ample time to rest and recover. Avoid strenuous activities, get plenty of sleep, and listen to your body's signals for when you need to rest.
• Voice Therapy: In some cases, your doctor may recommend voice therapy or speech therapy to help improve voice quality and function after surgery.

What are the technologies used in the Micro Laryngeal Surgery?

In micro laryngeal surgery, various advanced technologies are used to help in the precise visualization and treatment of laryngeal conditions. These include:

• Microscopes: Surgical microscopes provide enhanced magnification and illumination, enabling surgeons to visualize the delicate structures of the larynx with exceptional clarity and precision.
• Fiberoptic Endoscopes: These flexible instruments equipped with miniature cameras and light sources are inserted through the nose or mouth to provide a detailed view of the larynx. They allow for thorough examination and targeted treatment of laryngeal abnormalities.
• Cold Instruments: Specialized microsurgical instruments with fine tips are used to manipulate and remove tissue within the larynx. These instruments are designed to minimize tissue trauma and preserve vocal function.
• Laser Technology: Lasers may be utilized to precisely target and remove abnormal tissue or lesions in the larynx. Laser-assisted surgery offers high precision and minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
• Electrocautery Devices: These instruments use electrical energy to cut, coagulate, or remove tissue during surgery. They are particularly useful for controlling bleeding and achieving precise tissue removal.
• Video Recording Systems: Video recording systems capture real-time footage of the surgical procedure, allowing for documentation, review, and analysis. This technology aids in surgical planning, education, and quality assurance.
• Voice Analysis Software: Advanced software applications can analyze acoustic parameters of voice production, aiding in pre-operative assessment and post-operative evaluation of vocal function. Voice analysis software helps monitor treatment outcomes and guide rehabilitation efforts.