Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 11, 2025
Investigating the Three-dimensional Flow Separation Induced by a Model Vocal Fold Polyp
Published on: February 3, 2014
Spontaneous Vocal Fold Polyps Remission after Lockdown for Covid-19 Pandemic: Does Vocal Load Matter?
Marco Fantini1, Giovanni Succo2, Martina Tascone1
1Head and Neck Oncology Service, Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO IRCCS, Candiolo, Turin, Italy.
Objective:
During the Italian lockdown for Covid-19 emergency, due to stay-at-home orders, many people experienced an unusual period of voice rest. The present case series aims at reporting the spontaneous regression of some vocal fold polyps during the Italian lockdown for SARS-CoV2 pandemic.
Methods:
Five patients with voice complaints presenting to a tertiary referral center and diagnosed with vocal fold polyps before the lockdown were included. Because of the lockdown restrictive measures, planned elective surgical procedures were suspended. The patients were re-assessed immediately after lockdown. Multidimensional voice assessments were conducted before and after the lockdown period through laryngostroboscopies, perceptual voice evaluations, electroacoustic analysis and self assessments.
Results:
The patients included in the present case series experienced a complete or nearly complete remission of symptoms. Videolaryngostroboscopies documented a complete or nearly complete regression of the polyps. Voices considerably improved both perceptually and electroacoustically. Self assessments showed a reduction of voice-related complaints.
Conclusions:
The present study suggests that daily vocal load reduction may play a critical role in the conservative management of vocal fold polyps.
Related Concept Videos
01:21Larynx
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,...
01:27Pneumothorax-II
Clinical Manifestations:
01:29Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-V: Management
Smoking Cessation
01:23Chronic Pharyngitis
Etiology
It often arises from persistent viral or bacterial infections affecting sinuses and tonsils.
Additional contributing factors include inadequate dental hygiene, mouth breathing, recurring tonsillitis, allergic rhinitis, laryngopharyngeal reflux, and exposure to smoke, chemicals, and other environmental pollutants. Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and pet dander, chronic cough, excessive voice usage,...
01:25Hyperpnea and Hyperventilation
01:22Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Smoking is a primary risk factor for COPD, with over 80% of patients having a history of it. Patients typically experience progressive dyspnea or labored breathing, frequent coughing, and recurrent pulmonary infections. Many eventually succumb to respiratory failure, characterized by...