Vocal process Granuloma  

A vocal process granuloma is a growth of tissue that occurs over the vocal process.  The vocal process is part of the arytenoid cartilage, which is the cartilage responsible for moving the vocal folds.  Vocal process granulomas are non-cancerous growths that arise in response to irritation, and may occur as a result of acid reflux recent intubation
vocal habits.

Symptoms of a vocal process granuloma may include:

Diagnosis

Patients with these complaints are evaluated in the University Voice and Swallowing Center at the UC Irvine Medical Center.   The examination will be performed with a high-definition distal chip laryngoscope which is recorded for archiving and to allow patients to better understand the disease being treated.

Vocal Process Granuloma Treatment:

Vocal process granulomas can be difficult to treat, and requires multiple treatment methods.  Control of acid reflux calls for lifestyle changes including diet modification as well as prescription reflux medication.

Voice therapy aims to change habits in speaking which may be causing the granuloma.  In office we are able to perform steroid vocal fold injections which decrease local inflammation.  For refractory cases, or those cases which do not improve easily, vocal fold injections with Botox lessen the force which vocal folds strike one another.  These are performed in the office as well.  In-office laser surgery has also been used to control granulomas.

Surgery is used to remove granulomas when they are very large or causing problems such as shortness of breath.  This is usually a relatively quick surgery that is performed through the mouth.

To make an appointment with one of our laryngologists, Dr. Dr. Verma or Dr. Crumley, please call 714-456-7017 or click here to request an appointment via the web.