Vocal Cord Tumors

The vocal cords, also known as “vocal folds”, are two bands of muscle found in the larynx, which begins at the back of the throat. Tumors often start as a small group of abnormal cells, and can then grow in size. These tumors can be cancerous or benign, but require evaluation to determine their status. At Texas ENT Specialists, our staff are experts in cancers that affect the head and neck. We are able to effectively diagnose and treat vocal cord tumors.

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Vocal Cord Tumor Treatments

The first step in vocal cord tumor treatment is a biopsy of the tumor. This is a procedure that is usually performed in the operating room. During the procedure, some or all of the tumor will be removed and analyzed to determine if it is cancerous. If the tumor is found to be cancerous, follow-up treatment may be required, including further surgery. Some patients may also require radiation therapy.

About Vocal Cord Tumors

Vocal cord tumors are found within the vocal cords and can become cancerous. Roughly 10,000 cases of vocal cord cancer are diagnosed each year. Before tumors are present, pre-cancerous lesions may be found. These are typically characterized by a white or red plaque on the vocal cords. Removing pre-cancerous lesions can stop cancerous tumors from growing. Vocal changes, including hoarseness, are some of the first signs of vocal cord tumors, which leads to early evaluation and treatment. Vocal cord cancer is often connected to a history of smoking, but is not limited only to smokers.

Symptoms of Vocal Cord Tumors

Vocal changes
Chronic sore throat
Difficulty swallowing
Difficulty breathing
Lumps that can be felt in the neck
The feeling of something stuck in your throat
Coughing (sometimes with blood)
Ear pain
Vocal strain

About Texas ENT Specialists

Texas ENT Specialists is a premier provider of ENT care. Founded in 1997, our mission is to help the patients of Houston improve their lives by helping them achieve long-term relief. We are a multi-location practice with 15 offices across Houston. We’ve set ourselves apart by offering patients:

Personalized Treatment

Your treatment will be customized to meet your specific needs to help improve the symptoms that are impacting your daily life.

Top-Rated Physician Network

Our locations are staffed with a team of highly-trained, board-certified providers who have years of experience with ENT care.

Centers of Excellence

We’ve built a seamless patient experience that begins the moment you walk through our doors.

Continuity of Care

Our goal is to provide you with long-term relief from your condition rather than just a short-term solution.