Vocal Cord Papilloma

Vocal cord papillomas are small wart-like growths caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).  Papillomas present with hoarseness and voice changes, but when large can cause shortness of breath.  The disease is also known as recurrent respiratory papillomatosis, or RRP.

Treatment of papilloma requires surgery, where the papilloma is removed.  This was traditionally performed in the operating room with the patient asleep and papilloma removed through the mouth using lasers and   With the patient asleep a laryngoscope is placed through the mouth.  Laser and fine instruments are used to remove the papilloma. 

Minimally invasive surgery is now possible to treat papilloma in the office.  While the patient is awake a KTP laser is used to selectively remove the disease.  After a flexible camera and laser are passed through the nose, the disease is treated, leaving the normal vocal cord tissue untouched.  The procedure typically takes between 10-20 minutes to perform, and patients go home the same day, able to eat and drink without problem.  The state-of-the-art treatment allows patient to drive themselves to and from the appointment and not worry about excessive missed time from work and family.  

Dr. Sunil Verma, the director of the University Voice and Swallowing Center, is an expert in these procedures, and has some of the most experience in California managing vocal cord papillomas.

If you have been diagnosed with a papillomatosis and would like to lean about these options please contact Dr. Sunil Verma, director of the University Voice and Swallowing Center, at (714) 456-7017 for an appointment.