A Clinicopathological Study of Benign Vocal Cord Lesions

Background: Benign vocal lesions are non-malignant growths of abnormal tissue on the vocal cords. Their significance lies in the importance of its function in speaking and the contribution of the voice to one’s identity. Often, voice disorders cause a communication handicap, especially in professionals like teachers. Methods: This study was done over a period of two years in 40 patients in the age group of 15-70 years of either sex, with clinical diagnosis of benign lesion of vocal cords. The patients were preoperatively assessed using VHI-10 score (Voice Handicap Index). After routine investigations and consent, the patients underwent surgery under GA to excise the lesion on vocal fold, using a suspension video laryngoscope. The excised tissue was sent for histopathological evaluation (HPE). Voice handicap was evaluated through postoperative VHI-10. The data was compiled and statistically assessed. Results: The association of risk factors i.e. drinking of tea/coffee, smoking and alcohol drinking were found to be statistically insignificant (p>0.01). The difference between pre and post-op VHI-10 score was highly significant (p<0.01). Conclusions: VHI-10 score was found to be a useful tool to assess the improvement after surgery. Avoiding risk factors like tea/coffee, smoking and alcohol drinking can significantly reduce the incidence of the benign vocal cord lesions.