Utility of Voice Therapy in the Management of Vocal Fold Polyps and Cysts

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of voice therapy in the management of vocal fold polyps and cysts. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING: Retrospective review of vocal fold cysts and polyps undergoing voice therapy in a tertiary care center. Symptom resolution or persistence resulting in surgical intervention was the main outcome measure. RESULTS: Fifty-seven patients were identified, of which 49.1% achieved symptom resolution with voice therapy alone. Patients with complete glottal closure and muscle tension dysphonia did not have a better response than those with incomplete glottal closure and without muscle tension dysphonia ( P = 0.1, χ 2 , respectively). Patients with translucent polyps more commonly responded to voice therapy than fibrotic, hyaline, or hemorrhagic polyps, 81.8% versus 15.4% and 25.0% response rate, respectively ( P = 0.002, χ 2 ). CONCLUSIONS: Voice therapy is an effective treatment modality for vocal fold polyps and cysts. SIGNIFICANCE: A multidisciplinary approach including a trial of voice therapy is warranted.