Related Experiment Videos

An underreported complication of laryngeal microdebrider: vocal fold web and granuloma: a case report

Melissa Mortensen1, Peak Woo

  • 1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, Virginia 22908, USA. mm6nj@virginia.edu

The Laryngoscope
|June 26, 2009
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Microdebrider use in the larynx can cause serious vocal fold injury, leading to dysphonia. Surgeons must exercise extreme caution when using this tool to avoid debilitating damage and scarring.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Laryngeal surgery

Background:

  • The microdebrider is increasingly utilized in laryngeal procedures, including treating recurrent respiratory papillomatosis, laryngeal stenosis, and managing large cancers for airway control.
  • Few complications have been reported with microdebrider use in the larynx.

Observation:

  • A patient developed severe dysphonia and a laryngeal web with a granuloma two months post-vocal fold polyp removal using a microdebrider.
  • Examination revealed a large anterior commisure laryngeal web and a granuloma.

Findings:

  • Microdebrider use, particularly violating the epithelium and lamina propria, can lead to significant vocal fold damage.
  • This damage can result in debilitating injury, scarring, and subsequent persistent dysphonia.

Implications:

  • Surgeons must exercise utmost caution when employing powered instrumentation like microdebriders within the delicate laryngeal structures.
  • Careful technique is crucial to prevent iatrogenic injury and preserve vocal fold function.

Related Concept Videos

Esophageal Perforation-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management01:28

Esophageal Perforation-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management

Esophageal perforations manifest in various clinical forms, influenced by factors such as the perforation's cause and location (cervical, intrathoracic, or intra-abdominal), the extent of contamination, and potential injury to adjacent mediastinal structures. The timing between the perforation occurrence and treatment initiation also affects the clinical presentation.
Clinical Manifestations:
Larynx01:21

Larynx

The human larynx, often referred to as the voice box, is an intricate organ located in the neck. It serves as a pathway for air to enter the lungs during respiration and is an essential component of voice production.
Anatomy of the Larynx
The larynx consists of various components, including cartilage, muscles, and vocal cords. Its structure includes three large unpaired cartilages—the thyroid, cricoid, and epiglottis—and three smaller paired cartilages—the arytenoids, corniculates, and...
Esophageal Perforation-I: Introduction01:22

Esophageal Perforation-I: Introduction

Esophageal perforation is a severe medical condition characterized by a breach in the integrity of the esophageal wall. This breach can occur due to various factors such as trauma, medical procedures, or underlying diseases. When the esophageal wall is compromised, it allows food, fluids, and digestive juices into the chest cavity or adjacent structures, leading to potential complications and health risks.
The location of esophageal perforation can vary, occurring anywhere along the esophagus.
Barrett Esophagus-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management01:21

Barrett Esophagus-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management

Individuals with Barrett's esophagus are often asymptomatic, but they may experience symptoms commonly associated with GERD, such as heartburn and acid regurgitation. Additional symptoms can include difficulty swallowing, chest pain, unintentional weight loss, blood in the stool (which may appear black, tarry, or bloody), and episodes of vomiting.
To diagnose Barrett's esophagus, healthcare providers often recommend an endoscopy for those showing symptoms of acid reflux. The procedure entails...
Esophageal Strictures-II: Clinical Features and Management01:26

Esophageal Strictures-II: Clinical Features and Management

Patients with esophageal strictures often experience a range of symptoms. Initially, they may have difficulty swallowing solid foods, which can progress to include liquids. Additional symptoms may involve chest pain or discomfort, regurgitating food and fluids, heartburn, unintentional weight loss, coughing or choking during meals, and hoarseness.
Healthcare providers should gather a comprehensive medical history and conduct a physical examination for diagnosis. If esophageal stricture is...
Pneumonia III: Complications and Assessment01:30

Pneumonia III: Complications and Assessment

Pneumonia poses the potential for numerous complications that warrant consideration. These complications include the following: