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+49 40 – 5 13 13 007
contact@mevoc.de
ContactNewsletter
+49 40 – 5 13 13 007
contact@mevoc.de

Benign mass lesions

Benign mass lesions of the vocal fold are masses located on the surface or within the vocal fold. These include polyps, cysts, nodules, bamboo nodes, edema, granuloma, keratosis, papilloma, and other masses. Benign mass lesions may induce hoarseness because of their additional mass and therefore can be ‚heard.

The most common causes are vocal strain or improper technique (“phonotrauma”), smoking, laryngopharyngeal reflux, and, less commonly, infections or complications from intubation. Papillomas are caused by an HPV infection (most commonly types 6 and 11).

This image shows a contact granuloma, which is one of the benign lesions of tissue.
Kontaktgranulom Contact granuloma

How do these changes manifest themselves?

Typical symptoms include hoarseness, a rough or deep voice, vocal fatigue, a “double voice,” vocal breaks, and increased air consumption; in rare cases, large papillomas or Reinke’s edema can lead to breathing difficulties.

Diagnosis – examine first, then treat

Videolaryngostroboscopy is crucial: it reveals the position, mobility, and vibratory function of the mucosa and helps distinguish between different types of lesions. In cases of unclear, unilateral, or “hard” findings—especially in smokers—a tissue sample (biopsy) may be necessary to rule out a malignant change.

If surgery is neccessary

We recommend phonomicrosurgical removal with high-precision instruments or specialized fiber-guided lasers. In most cases, after adequate microsurgery, they will not recur.