Fibrovascular polyp of the hypopharynx and esophagus

Jun Wang1, De-Min Han, Xin Ni

  • 1Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China.

Chinese Medical Journal
|November 2, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Fibrovascular polyps, rare benign tumors, can cause throat and breathing issues. Surgical removal is effective for these hypopharyngeal and esophageal growths, ensuring a good outcome.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Surgical Oncology

Background:

  • Fibrovascular polyps are rare, benign intraluminal and submucosal tumors.
  • These polyps most commonly originate from the proximal esophagus.
  • They can present with symptoms like regurgitation, respiratory distress, or a sensation of a throat mass.

Observation:

  • This study reviewed four cases of hypopharyngeal and esophageal fibrovascular polyps.
  • Patients underwent examination via laryngoscope under general anesthesia.
  • Treatment involved surgical excision, with one patient undergoing a cervical incision and three treated with CO2 laser excision.

Findings:

  • All four fibrovascular polyps were successfully removed.
  • The study highlights the importance of recognizing these polyps as a cause of regurgitation.
  • Surgical excision demonstrated satisfactory outcomes for all patients.

Implications:

  • Early recognition and diagnosis of fibrovascular polyps are crucial for effective management.
  • Surgical excision is the recommended treatment, offering a high success rate.
  • This approach can alleviate symptoms and prevent potential complications associated with these benign tumors.

Related Concept Videos

Esophageal Varices-I: Introduction01:24

Esophageal Varices-I: Introduction

Esophageal varices are dilated, tortuous veins which are found mainly in the submucosa of the lower esophagus but which may also appear higher up or extend into the stomach. They develop due to increased pressure in the portal venous system, often as a result of liver cirrhosis. This condition scars and damages the liver, impeding normal blood flow through the portal vein. To compensate, blood seeks alternative pathways, forming fragile new vessels (varices) in the esophagus and stomach. These...
Esophagus01:24

Esophagus

The esophagus, a muscular conduit linking the pharynx and stomach, measures roughly 10 inches (25.4 cm) and sits behind the trachea. It remains collapsed when not swallowing. The esophagus follows a predominantly straight path through the thoracic mediastinum and enters the abdominal cavity through a diaphragmatic opening known as the esophageal hiatus.
The movement of edibles from the pharynx into the esophagus is facilitated by the upper esophageal sphincter, which is formed primarily by the...
Barrett Esophagus-I: Introduction01:21

Barrett Esophagus-I: Introduction

Barrett's esophagus is a medical condition where the esophageal mucosa is significantly damaged by stomach acid or other digestive fluids, often due to long-term exposure associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In GERD, a weakened or abnormally relaxed lower esophageal sphincter allows stomach acid to flow persistently into the esophagus.
This constant acid exposure transforms the esophagus's pink mucosal lining (stratified squamous epithelium) into a type of lining more similar...
Esophageal Achalasia01:27

Esophageal Achalasia

Esophageal achalasia is a chronic neurogenic disorder characterized by impaired relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and absent or ineffective peristalsis in the distal esophagus. This leads to a functional obstruction without a physical blockage, despite significant disruption of esophageal motility.EtiologyAchalasia is caused by degeneration of the myenteric (Auerbach's) plexus, specifically the loss of inhibitory ganglion cells that produce vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP)...
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 Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management01:28

Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management

Esophageal varices often manifest as gastrointestinal bleeding episodes, presenting symptoms like hematemesis (vomiting of blood), hematochezia (passing fresh blood via the rectum), and melena (black, tarry stools). Other signs can include weight loss, anorexia, abdominal discomfort, jaundice, pruritus, altered mental status, and muscle cramps.
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol abuse, or...