Vocal Fold Webs

What is it?
Vocal fold webs are thin connections that typically extend across the front (anterior) portion of the vocal folds.  Webs are often either congenital or trauma-related, sometimes due to previous vocal fold surgeries or intubation.  Vocal fold webs may be small and asymptomatic.  However, larger webs may alter airflow through the vocal fold region and affect the ability to generate normal voice production or to breathe adequately.

How is it treated?

Asymptomatic vocal fold webs do not require treatment.  Symptomatic ones can be treated with an endoscopic, minimally-invasive procedure to reconstruct the front portion of the vocal folds.  Some webs may require open surgery to adequately re-establish function.