Reinke's oedema (polypoid chorditis) is a vocal cord (vocal fold) disease characterised by the accumulation of a dark, jelly-like fluid just beneath the surface epithelium of the vocal cords.
How does polypoid chorditis occur and what are the causes?
The most important factors in the development of the disease are smoking (tobacco use), laryngopharyngeal reflux (the escape of stomach acid back into the throat) and prolonged overuse or misuse of the voice. Recurrent or chronic upper respiratory tract infections and frequent throat clearing are also considered additional contributing factors.
What are the symptoms of polypoid chorditis (Reinke's oedema)? Is Reinke's oedema dangerous?
The volume and mass of the vocal cords increase, which thickens the pitch of the voice. In female patients, the voice may sound more masculine. During speaking and singing, the voice may be irregular, unstable and lower than normal. There may be difficulty producing sound, fatigue after talking for a long time, and a feeling of needing to exert more effort while talking.
Surgical treatment of Reinke's oedema
The main method of treatment is surgery (phonomicrosurgery). Issues contributing to the pathology should be addressed both before and after surgery: quitting tobacco use, adopting a lifestyle focused on vocal hygiene, following a reflux diet and using relevant medical treatments as needed. When these issues are addressed after surgery performed by an experienced surgeon, the pathology is unlikely to recur.
Reinke's oedema — follow-up and prognosis
There is significant improvement in the voice after the operation. If the vocal hygiene measures above are observed, voice quality can remain good for a very long time.
