Laryngeal Surgery (Vocal Cord Biopsy)

  • After the procedure, you may have some nausea, general muscle aches and feel tired for 1 to 2 days.

  • Your throat may feel sore or slightly swollen for 2 to 5 days. You may sound hoarse for 1 to 8 weeks, depending on what was done during the procedure.

  • Avoid whispering or shouting which can strain your vocal cords as they are trying to heal. Speak at a regular volume.

  • Try to avoid coughing or clearing your throat while your throat heals. These activities can also damage your vocal cords.

  • If the doctor took a sample of tissue during your procedure it's normal to spit up a small amount of blood after the procedure. Talk to your doctor about how much bleeding to expect and how long the bleeding may last.

  • If the doctor took a biopsy, you will be called with the test results which may take 1-2 weeks
  • Activity
  • Rest when you feel tired. Getting enough sleep will help you recover.

  • Avoid strenuous activities, such as bicycle riding, jogging, weight lifting, or aerobic exercise, for at least 1 week or until your doctor says it is okay.

  • If your job requires you to use your voice, you may need to take 1 to 2 weeks off from work.
  • Diet
  • Drink plenty of fluids to avoid becoming dehydrated.

  • If your throat is swollen or sore, drink clear fluids such as water, apple juice, and flavored ice pops. Start out with cool, clear liquids; flavored ice pops; and ice cream. Next, try soft foods like pudding, yogurt, canned or cooked fruit, scrambled eggs, and mashed potatoes.

  • Avoid hot drinks, soda pop, and citrus juices, such as orange juice. These may cause more swelling and pain Medicines
  • If you take aspirin or some other blood thinner, ask your doctor if and when to start taking it again.

  • Take pain medicines exactly as directed.

  • Throat Care
  • Suck on throat lozenges or gargle with warm salt water to help your sore throat.
Call your doctor if:
  • You cough up a lots of blood or have bleeding that lasts for 24 hours.
  • You have trouble breathing.
  • You have symptoms of a blood clot in your leg (called a deep vein thrombosis), such as:
  •  Pain in the calf, back of the knee, thigh, or groin.
  •  Redness and swelling in your leg or groin.
  • Seek immediate Medical Assistance/ Emergency care if
  •  You pass out (lost consciousness).
  •  You have severe trouble breathing.
  •  You have sudden chest pain and shortness of breath, or you cough up more than a few drops of blood.