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How Phonomicrosurgery Is Done
How is phonomicrosurgery performed?
Phonomicrosurgery is an extremely complex and precise technique that involves several elements.
Element 1: Voice Box Viewed and Reached Through a Laryngoscope
The phonosurgeon visualizes the larynx (voice box) through a laryngoscope that is gently inserted into the mouth and advanced down the throat to expose the larynx. In addition, surgical instruments reach the vocal folds through this tube.
Element 2: Magnified View of the Vocal Folds Through a Microscope
The vocal folds are viewed through an operating microscope, which provides a clear, magnified image. The magnified image is often displayed on a monitor for unrestricted viewing.
Element 3: Re-Examination of Vocal Folds
Before proceeding, the surgeon re-examines the vocal folds with greater magnification. Careful inspection of the tissues with particular instruments allows a re-assessment of the abnormality of the vocal folds to:
- Reconfirm the diagnosis
- Examine the extent of the abnormality
- Find other abnormalities that may have not been identified
Element 4: Microsurgery: Long Instruments Passed Through Laryngoscope
Specialized instruments are then used to perform surgery on the vocal folds under magnified views through a microscope. Precise surgical manipulations remove the abnormalities while preserving normal tissue, which is key to successful treatment of a voice disorder and improvement or preservation of voice function.
Element 5: "Cold Steel" Instruments and Lasers
Phonomicrosurgery can be performed with metallic instruments (so called "cold steel") and/or various lasers (laser beams) that can be adjusted and aimed to cut or vaporize tissue.
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