Vocal Cord & Laryngeal Procedures
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Prior to Surgery:
It is important to stop taking aspirin two weeks prior to the surgery, and ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®, Nuprin®, etc.) and Aleve® one week prior to the surgery.
The night before surgery, do not have anything to eat or drink after midnight. If the patient has been instructed otherwise during their pre-admission testing appointment, follow those instructions.
What to Expect:
It is common to be temporarily hoarse after this procedure. This may not develop until a day or two after the procedure, and may persist for a few weeks.
There is usually little or no pain after this procedure. There may be jaw pain from wide opening of the mouth during surgery. Use Tylenol® (acetaminophen) as needed for pain.
Citrus fruit juices may cause pain, thus should be avoided for the first one to two weeks after surgery.
Sleeping in a cool, humidified room is beneficial. An antibiotic may be prescribed to prevent infection.
Antacids may be prescribed or helpful if there is a history of heartburn or reflux.
Call our office if the patient has a fever of over 101°.
Restrictions:
Voice Rest (i.e. talk as little as possible) is helpful in the first two weeks after surgery.
This allows the vocal chords to heal more quickly. When speaking, do not whisper as this puts more strain on the vocal cords than attempting to use a normal voice.
There are no dietary restrictions after this procedure.
Driving is permitted as long as the patient is not taking any prescription pain medicines. Aspirin and aspirin-containing products should be avoided for the first ten days after this procedure.
Do not smoke, and avoid exposure to cigarette/pipe/cigar smoke.
Follow-up in our office as scheduled, or please call our office to make this appointment.
Please call 610-374-5599 with any questions or concerns. |
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