Post-Thyroid Surgery Voice Damage: Seeking Effective Recovery Options

Q: Post-Thyroid Surgery Voice Damage: Seeking Effective Recovery Options

Dear Sir/Madam： 1. You can schedule an appointment with either the Otolaryngology Department or the Rehabilitation Department for speech therapy. 2. Some patients may experience self-improvement within a few months, while others may not. Dr. Yeh Da-Wei, Direct

Vocal cord injury after thyroid surgery?

My mother underwent thyroid surgery last January, and her vocal cords were damaged postoperatively.
Now, she can only speak in a very weak voice.
The surgeon who performed the operation mentioned the possibility of vocal cord damage, stating that the likelihood was low, but unfortunately, it happened.
He also said that once damaged, recovery is not possible.
Therefore, my mother initially did not actively seek rehabilitation or related treatments, and for the past year and nine months, she has only been able to communicate with us using a very faint voice.
When she goes out to buy groceries, she needs us to speak for her.
Later, she met a friend during dialysis who suggested that a doctor at Chi Mei Hospital recommended performing neck circumduction exercises.
This friend eventually recovered her vocal cords, but she started this rehabilitation within three months post-surgery.
My mother has consulted two or three doctors, including Dr.
Chiu from Chi Mei and Dr.
Hsu from National Cheng Kung University, and the responses she received were either that surgery was necessary or that the vocal cords should be left to continue deteriorating.
Some even mentioned the risk of causing respiratory difficulties and choking.
I am concerned that under these pessimistic circumstances, my mother's voice will continue to weaken, and I suggest pursuing treatment.
My mother has undergone several surgeries and has been on dialysis for over ten years, indicating that she is very reluctant to have surgery on her throat unless absolutely necessary.
I worry that the previous doctors' suggestions may be inconsistent or one-sided, and I would like to ask more doctors or find successful case experiences related to her condition.
I would like to ask the doctor which relevant field (ENT? Speech therapy?...) would be more precise for consultation? Additionally, are there any shared experiences from successful cases related to her condition?

randy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/10/27

Dr. Ye Dawei reply Otolaryngology

Dear Sir/Madam: 1.
You can schedule an appointment with either the Otolaryngology Department or the Rehabilitation Department for speech therapy.
2.
Some patients may experience self-improvement within a few months, while others may not.
Dr.
Yeh Da-Wei, Director of the Otolaryngology Department, Hsinchu Hospital.

Reply Date: 2009/10/27

More Info

Post-thyroid surgery voice damage can be a challenging and distressing experience, especially when it affects daily communication and quality of life. Your concerns regarding your mother's condition after her thyroid surgery are valid, and it is essential to explore all possible avenues for recovery.
Firstly, it is important to understand that voice changes following thyroid surgery can occur due to various reasons, including damage to the recurrent laryngeal nerve, which is responsible for controlling the vocal cords. The risk of nerve damage during thyroid surgery, although generally low, can lead to complications such as vocal cord paralysis or weakness, resulting in a weak or hoarse voice. In some cases, these changes may improve over time, but in others, they may persist, necessitating further intervention.

Given your mother's situation, it is crucial to consult specialists who can provide a comprehensive evaluation and tailored treatment options. Here are some recommendations on the types of specialists to consider:
1. Otolaryngologist (ENT Specialist): An ENT doctor specializes in conditions affecting the ear, nose, and throat, including voice disorders. They can assess the extent of the vocal cord damage and recommend appropriate treatments, which may include surgical options if necessary.

2. Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP): A speech therapist can work with your mother on voice rehabilitation techniques. They can provide exercises to strengthen the vocal cords and improve voice quality. Many patients benefit from voice therapy, especially if started early after the injury.

3. Neurologist: If there is a suspicion of nerve damage, a neurologist can evaluate the function of the nerves involved in voice production. They may suggest treatments aimed at nerve recovery or management of symptoms.

4. Vocal Rehabilitation Programs: Some hospitals and clinics offer specialized vocal rehabilitation programs that combine medical and therapeutic approaches. These programs can be beneficial for patients with voice issues post-surgery.

In terms of recovery, there are several approaches that may help improve your mother's voice:
- Voice Therapy: Engaging in structured voice therapy with a qualified speech-language pathologist can lead to significant improvements. Therapy may include vocal exercises, breath control techniques, and strategies to reduce strain on the vocal cords.

- Surgical Interventions: In cases where there is significant vocal cord paralysis, surgical options such as vocal cord injection (e.g., with hyaluronic acid) or surgical repositioning of the vocal cords may be considered. These procedures aim to improve vocal cord function and voice quality.

- Alternative Therapies: Some patients have reported benefits from alternative therapies such as acupuncture or holistic approaches, although these should be considered complementary to traditional medical treatments.

Regarding your inquiry about success stories, it is essential to recognize that recovery can vary widely among individuals. Some patients experience significant improvement within months, while others may take longer or require more intensive interventions. Connecting with support groups or forums for individuals who have undergone similar experiences can provide valuable insights and encouragement.

Lastly, it is crucial to maintain open communication with healthcare providers. If your mother feels that her current treatment plan is not yielding results, seeking a second opinion or consulting with additional specialists may provide new perspectives and options. It is understandable that your mother may be hesitant about further surgeries, especially given her medical history, so exploring non-invasive options first is advisable.

In conclusion, while the journey to recovery may be complex, there are various avenues to explore. Engaging with the right specialists and pursuing a combination of therapies can lead to improved outcomes for your mother. Your advocacy for her health and well-being is commendable, and with the right support, there is hope for recovery and improved voice function.

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