Professor Gideon BacharDeputy Head of the Otolaryngology Department
In Israel, vocal cord papillomas are successfully treated by combining advanced technologies and international clinical experience. At the Ichilov clinic, gentle minimally invasive methods are used that preserve healthy tissues and promote the restoration of voice function. In each specific case, the treatment strategy is tailored individually, taking into account the size, location of the papilloma, and the patient's condition.
Otolaryngologists, oncologists, and voice rehabilitation specialists are involved in the process, ensuring a comprehensive and thoughtful approach. The modern diagnostic base of the Ichilov clinic allows for accurate determination of the nature of the formation and rapid development of a personalized therapy plan. Laser technologies and microsurgical methods reduce risks and accelerate recovery. The high effectiveness of treatment at the Ichilov clinic gives patients a real chance to regain their voice and return to a full life.
About the Disease
Vocal cord papilloma is a benign formation that arises due to infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV).
Main causes:
- HPV infection;
- decreased immunity;
- chronic irritation of the mucosa (smoking, polluted air);
- frequent viral infections.
Main symptoms:
- hoarseness and voice changes;
- sensation of a lump in the throat;
- rapid fatigue when speaking;
- in severe cases — difficulty breathing.
Treatment Methods for Vocal Cord Papilloma
The choice of treatment methods for vocal cord papilloma depends on the size, localization, and extent of the neoplasms, the patient's age, and the risk of malignancy. Combined treatment is often used to achieve maximum effect and prevent recurrences.
Surgical Treatment
Surgical removal is used for large papillomas, multiple foci, or a high risk of airway obstruction. Microlaryngoscopic technologies using an operating microscope and microsurgical instruments are employed. Endoscopic resection is performed through flexible or rigid endoscopes. The cold knife technique ensures precise excision while preserving healthy tissues. The result includes complete removal of visible formations and restoration of vocal cord function while maintaining their anatomical structure.
Laser Therapy
Laser destruction is indicated for recurrent papillomas and difficult-to-access locations of formations. CO2 lasers, neodymium lasers, and diode laser systems of various powers are used. Photocoagulation provides contactless effects with minimal trauma to surrounding tissues. Laser vaporization allows for layer-by-layer removal of pathological tissues with controlled depth of impact. The technology ensures immediate hemostasis and sterilization of the surgical field, achieving complete destruction of papillomatous formations.
Cryotherapy
Cryodestruction is used for small solitary papillomas and as an adjunct method after surgical treatment. Liquid nitrogen at a temperature of minus 196 degrees Celsius is applied through special cryoapplicators and cryoprobes of various diameters. Controlled freezing creates local necrosis of pathological tissues with subsequent rejection. The technique allows for impact on hard-to-reach areas of the larynx, ensuring complete destruction of papillomatous tissue with the formation of healthy epithelium at the site of impact.
Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency destruction is indicated for recurrent forms of the disease and multiple small papillomas. High-frequency radio waves of 3.8-4.0 MHz are used through bipolar and monopolar electrodes. The radio-surgery technology ensures contactless destruction of tissues without mechanical impact. Controlled heating to 60-80 degrees causes coagulation necrosis of papillomatous formations. The method provides precise impact while preserving healthy areas of the vocal cords and achieving stable remission of the disease.
Photodynamic Therapy
Photodynamic effects are used for multiple papillomatosis and a high risk of recurrence. Porphyrin-based photosensitizers are used followed by laser irradiation of a specific wavelength. Selective accumulation of the drug in pathological tissues ensures selectivity of the effect. The generation of active oxygen leads to the destruction of papilloma cells without damaging healthy structures. The technology allows for treatment of extensive surfaces and achieving long-term remission with minimal risk of disease recurrence.
Antiviral Therapy
Systemic antiviral treatment is prescribed for recurrent disease and multiple laryngeal lesions. Alpha interferons, interferon inducers, and direct-acting antiviral drugs are used. Interferon therapy is conducted parenterally or endolaryngeally under laryngoscopy control. Immunomodulatory agents enhance the body's natural antiviral defense. Combined schemes include systemic and local administration of drugs. The result is suppression of viral activity, reduction in papilloma size, and achieving stable clinical remission of the process.
Diagnostic Methods for the Disease
All diagnostic procedures at the Ichilov clinic for the treatment of vocal cord papilloma are planned in advance and usually take no more than three days. This clear schedule allows for a quick and accurate picture of the disease, excludes possible concomitant pathologies, and promptly initiates treatment.
First Day
On the day of arrival, the patient undergoes a consultation with the attending physician. The specialist collects a detailed medical history, evaluates complaints, conducts a primary examination using instrumental methods, and compiles a list of necessary studies to accurately determine the form, localization, and nature of the papillomatous process.
Second Day
On the following day, comprehensive diagnostics are conducted, including both visualization and laboratory methods.
- Clinical blood test
- Biochemical blood test
- Blood test for human papillomavirus
- Laryngoscopy
- Videostroboscopy
- Cervical MRI
- Cervical CT
- PET-CT (if malignancy is suspected)
- Biopsy
- Histological examination
- PCR diagnostics
- Cytology of laryngeal smears
Third Day
After completing all examinations, the doctors hold a consultation involving an otolaryngologist, oncologist, surgeon, and voice rehabilitation specialist. Based on the diagnostic results, they collaboratively develop an individual therapeutic plan. This multidisciplinary approach allows for consideration of all aspects of the patient's condition and selection of the most effective and safe treatment strategy.
- Computed Tomography
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Diagnostics — PET CT
- Biopsy and histological studies
- Blood biochemistry
- Cytology
How Much Does Treatment Cost in Israel
The cost of treating vocal cord papilloma at the Ichilov clinic is calculated individually. The price is influenced by the volume and type of necessary diagnostic procedures, the choice of treatment method, duration of stay, and the need for subsequent rehabilitation. The exact amount is determined only after assessing the patient's condition and selecting the optimal treatment strategy.
To find out the approximate cost in your case, please contact the consultant at the phone number provided on the website. The specialist will answer questions, clarify medical data, assist with trip organization, and provide a preliminary treatment plan with a cost estimate.
Advantages of Treatment in Israel
- Highly qualified ENT surgeons with narrow specialization.
- Use of innovative laser and microsurgical techniques.
- Utilization of modern endoscopic equipment for precise visualization.
- Comprehensive approach, including voice rehabilitation.
- Additional services, including personal accompaniment.
Even before arriving at the Israeli clinic, patients can order an online consultation with the necessary specialist. This will provide valuable recommendations, answers to all questions, and confidence in the correctness of the chosen treatment strategy.