Treatments

Vocal Cord Paralysis Treatments

Treatment for vocal cord paralysis depends on its underlying cause, if known. Some cases of vocal cord paralysis will resolve themselves over time. If not, treatments may include:

• Voice therapy: A speech-language pathologist can teach you exercises to improve your voice and breathing.
• Phonosurgery: This procedure involves repositioning or reshaping the vocal cords—sometimes with an implant—to bring the vocal cords closer together and improve voice and breathing function.
• Tracheotomy: When both vocal cords are severely paralyzed, a tracheotomy (breathing tube inserted in the neck) may be the only way to restore breathing.