Introduction

The larynx, also known as the voice box, plays an essential role in breathing, speaking, and protecting the airway during swallowing. However, several medical conditions can affect the structure and function of the larynx, leading to the need for laryngeal surgery. Whether due to benign issues like vocal cord nodules or more serious concerns such as cancer, understanding the causes of laryngeal surgery can help individuals recognize symptoms early, seek timely treatment, and prevent long-term complications.

Causes of Laryngeal Surgery

Laryngeal Cancer :- One of the most serious and common reasons for laryngeal surgery is laryngeal cancer. This cancer affects the tissues of the voice box and often begins in the vocal cords. Surgery is performed to remove cancerous tissues, prevent the spread of cancer, and restore essential functions such as speech and breathing. Depending on the stage, procedures may vary from removing part of the vocal cords (partial laryngectomy) to removing the entire larynx (total laryngectomy).

Symptoms

Hoarseness lasting more than two weeks
Difficulty swallowing
Persistent throat pain
Earache
Lump in the neck.

Vocal Cord Nodules, Polyps, and Cysts :- Benign growths on the vocal cords are also major causes behind laryngeal surgery. These growths often result from vocal strain, chronic irritation, or infections. While many vocal cord nodules and polyps get better with voice therapy and rest, some cases require surgery when:

Growths become large
They obstruct the airway
They affect speech quality
They do not respond to non-surgical treatment

Symptoms to Watch For

Hoarseness
Breathy voice
Voice fatigue
Reduced vocal range
Throat discomfort

Laryngeal Trauma :- Injury to the larynx is a serious condition that may require emergency surgery. Trauma can occur due to accidents, sports injuries, strangulation, or inhalation injuries. Laryngeal trauma can cause swelling, fractures, or damage to vocal cords. Surgery ensures:

Airway restoration
Repair of structural damage
Prevention of long-term breathing or speech problems

Symptoms to Watch For

Difficulty breathing
Hoarseness or loss of voice
Painful swallowing
Coughing up blood
Air leakage from the neck (subcutaneous emphysema)

Airway Obstruction :- Some individuals experience narrowing of the airway due to scarring, swelling, or external pressure on the larynx. Conditions like subglottic stenosis or laryngeal stenosis (narrowing of the airway) are major causes of surgical intervention. If the airway becomes too narrow, breathing becomes difficult or even life-threatening. Surgery helps:

Remove scar tissue
Widen the airway
Restore normal breathing

Symptoms to Watch For

Noisy breathing (stridor)
Shortness of breath
Frequent respiratory infections
Difficulty speaking

Chronic Infections and Inflammation :- Prolonged infections such as chronic laryngitis or severe bacterial/viral infections can damage the laryngeal tissues. Surgery may be necessary when:

Infections cause abscesses
Repeated inflammation leads to structural changes
Non-surgical treatments fail

Symptoms to Watch For

Persistent hoarseness
Throat swelling
Painful swallowing
Coughing

Vocal Cord Paralysis :- Vocal cord paralysis occurs when one or both vocal cords lose mobility due to nerve damage. This may be caused by surgery (especially thyroid surgery), neurological disorders, viral infections, or tumors. Surgery helps reposition or bulk up the vocal cord to improve:

Voice quality
Swallowing safety
Airway protection

Symptoms to Watch For

Weak or breathy voice
Swallowing difficulty
Choking during eating
Shortness of breath

Recurrent Papillomatosis :- Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) is a rare condition caused by HPV that leads to wart-like growths in the larynx. Since the growths return frequently, repeated surgeries are often required to keep the airway open and maintain healthy vocal function.

Symptoms to Watch For

Hoarseness
Breathing difficulty
Voice changes

Congenital Abnormalities :- Some individuals are born with laryngeal defects such as webs, cysts, or malformations affecting the airway or voice. Surgery helps improve breathing, feeding, and speech development for infants and children.

Symptoms to Watch For

Stridor from birth
Feeding problems
Weak or abnormal cry

Conclusion

Laryngeal surgery becomes necessary for several reasons, ranging from cancer and benign growths to trauma and airway obstruction. Identifying symptoms early, seeking professional care, and understanding underlying conditions play an important role in successful treatment. If you or someone you know is experiencing persistent hoarseness, difficulty breathing, or voice changes, consult an ENT specialist promptly. Early diagnosis can prevent complications and improve long-term outcomes.