Close to Curtain Time: Management of the Injured Singer in the Acute Setting (In-Office and Backstage Evaluation)

Abstract

Abstract Purpose of Review The purpose of this review is to summarize the current literature on the management of injured singers in the acute setting. This review seeks to answer the question on how to properly evaluate and treat injured singers presenting close to curtain time. Recent Findings Females and younger patients are more likely to present with vocal cord nodules, while males and older patients are more likely to present with polyps. The use of short-term glucocorticoid treatment has been found to be safe in singers, having a low incidence of vocal fold hemorrhage (3.6%) and thrush (5.5%), without long-term consequences. Summary The management of injured singers is challenging and requires a multidisciplinary approach. Phonotrauma is the most common etiology of acute dysphonia in singers. Although short-term glucocorticoid treatment appears to be safe without long-term consequences, the development of an optimal glucocorticoid regimen for the injured singer still needs further investigation.