Intubation granuloma is a type of vocal lesion that forms after a patient has been intubated—when a breathing tube is inserted during surgery or hospitalization. The pressure or movement of the tube can irritate the tissue at the back of the voice box, especially if the tube was in place for a long time. These granulomas usually appear a few days or weeks after the hospital stay. Patients may notice new hoarseness, breathiness, or even a weak or absent voice.

These lesions can be quite large, but often respond well to conservative treatment. In our office, we typically begin with high-dose acid reflux medications, inhaled or oral steroids, and careful monitoring. If the granuloma does not improve or if it affects breathing, we may recommend blue laser or KTP laser ablation, which can often be done in the office. In rare cases, if the lesion causes airway obstruction, surgical removal under general anesthesia may be necessary. Most patients recover fully with non-surgical care and ongoing voice and reflux management.