Vocal fold scar happens when the soft tissues in your voice box heal with extra stiff, fibrous tissue after an injury or surgery. This scar can make your vocal folds less flexible and change the way they vibrate, which may result in a hoarse, weak, or breathy voice. The scar forms when the usual layers of the vocal fold are disrupted and heal abnormally, and even though the scar may look fine under regular light, special tests (like stroboscopy) can show that the vibration is not as smooth or strong as it should be.

Understanding the healing process of the vocal folds is crucial. In the early stage, inflammation and new tissue growth occur as the body tries to repair the injury. The key is early intervention. If the vocal folds heal quickly (called primary healing), the surface layer can grow back smoothly, preserving some of the natural flexibility. However, if the healing is slower or involves more tissue damage (secondary healing), extra scar tissue can form, leading to stiffness and less voice quality. The extent of the surgery and the specific layer affected play a significant role in how much scar forms and how it impacts your voice.

Rehabilitation strategies for vocal fold scars are a collaborative effort between doctors and speech therapists. These professionals work together to devise a plan that may include voice therapy, gentle vocal exercises, and sometimes steroid injections to reduce inflammation and prevent thick scar formation. The ultimate goal is to maintain the softness and flexibility of the vocal folds during the healing process. Newer therapies, such as regenerative medicine, are also being explored, including the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapy.

With proper care and the right rehabilitation strategies, many patients experience significant improvements in their voice quality, although it might not return to exactly how it was before the injury or surgery. This potential for improvement offers hope and optimism to those dealing with vocal fold scars.

Vocal Fold Scar

Vocal Fold Scar