Vocal cord polyps represent benign lesions that may have a variety of appearances. Polyps may be single or multiple, involve one cord or both, and may be big or small. Polyps may be pedunculated (hanging by a thin stalk) or sessile (have a wide base). Polyps may produce a variety of symptoms, depending on their size and location. Symptoms may include hoarseness, throat clearing, cough, and trouble swallowing.

Polyps are diagnosed after careful examination with either flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopy or rigid transoral laryngoscopy, either with or without stroboscopy. In some cases, better visualization is needed to distinguish polyps from other lesions that may affect the vocal cords. In such cases, the physician may recommend microlaryngoscopy with biopsy of the lesion.

Treatment of polyps varies and is dictated by the cause of the polyp, as well as its size and location. Small polyps caused by irritating factors such as smoking may be treated with smoking cessation alone. Other polyps may be treated with medication. Large polyps or those not responding to medication may require microlaryngoscopy with excision.

Figure 1: Example of bilateral vocal cord polyps.

Figure 2: Example of right vocal cord polyp demonstrating resection using laser.