Vocal Fold Lesions: Comprehensive Management (non-surgical)(Non-exclusive)

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Vocal Fold lesions (benign) can result in significant communication impairment which can result in negative impact on social life and/or occupational activities. Recent research has shown that treatment success for dysphonia caused by vocal fold lesions can be done at a very high success rate. This expert series is designed to provide the practitioner with detailed assessment steps (history, stroboscopy and speech pathology evaluation), treatment decision making pathways and surgical techniques to care for this patient population. Key areas to be included will be stroboscopy, role of voice therapy, factoring in patient factors and various surgical approaches. The educational approach used will include providing a nomenclature framework for benign vocal fold lesions, a functional assessment of these patients, key variables in clinical decision making and review of the literature regarding outcomes of treatment. Clinical examples with video will be used as an educational tool.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 1: Explore the evaluation and assessment of patients that have dysphonia related to vocal fold lesions

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 2: Review indications for surgical removal of benign vocal fold lesions

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 3: Outline post-surgical treatment plans including management of complications related to phonomicrosurgery

BACKGROUND STATEMENT: This expert series provides information on important approaches for patients with vocal fold lesions. These types of lesions are common and can impact a variety of domains of patients especially the functional, social and occupational.

Comprehensive Otolaryngology Track Statement :