Phonosurgery
What is Phonosurgery?
Phonosurgery is a specialised surgical procedure that focuses on improving the quality of the voice, such as clarity, volume, or tone, by altering the structures of the voice box or larynx. This type of surgery is particularly valuable for individuals who have voice disorders resulting from various causes, such as vocal cord nodules, polyps, paralysis, scarring, or other abnormalities affecting the vocal folds.
Phonosurgery involves various techniques that may adjust or repair the vocal cords. Specifically, the procedures range from microsurgery to more extensive open surgeries, depending on the specific vocal issue being addressed. These interventions are designed to correct structural and functional abnormalities of the vocal folds, which can significantly enhance vocal function for oral communication. Our experienced ENT surgeon, who is an expert in laryngology, will recommend selected surgical technique(s) according to your condition.
Phonosurgery can often be performed as a day surgery. This type of surgery is usually done under general anaesthesia, allowing patients to recover quickly enough to go home the same day. The specific details, such as the ability to eat and drink post-surgery, and the duration you’ll need to stay under observation, depend on the individual case and the extent of the surgery performed.
What is the Success Rate of Phonosurgery?
Phonosurgery generally has a high success rate. It is reported to be effective in improving or restoring voice functionality.
What are the Potential Side Effects of Phonosurgery?
Common side effects include temporary changes in voice quality, sore throat, and mild pain or discomfort. More serious side effects could involve persistent hoarseness, vocal cord scarring, or, rarely, airway obstruction. It’s crucial to note that the severity and occurrence of these side effects can vary from one patient to another.
When should you see an ENT specialist in Singapore?
Please consult an ENT specialist if you are suffering from any ear, nose, or throat symptoms. It is also advisable to visit an ENT doctor if you experience persistent mouth breathing due to a chronic blocked nose or encounter snoring issues.
Dr Ker Liang sees adults and children for general ENT conditions and provides comprehensive management in a broad range of Ear, Nose, and Throat, as well as Head and Neck conditions. She has a special interest in treating throat and voice conditions, including persistent sore throat, voice issues, snoring, and Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA).
Medical Teaching
Assistant Professor Ker Liang has a passion for teaching and is an Assistant Professor with NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine (YLLSOM). As the NUS-NUH Otolaryngology Department Undergraduate Medical Director, Dr Ker Liang supervises the training of medical students from YLLSOM, NUS. She is actively involved
in the training of postgraduate junior doctors and residents in the Head and Neck Surgery department. She was conferred with an Undergraduate Teaching Award by the National University Health System in 2016 for her outstanding efforts as an Otolaryngology educator.
Medical Teaching
Assistant Professor Ker Liang has a passion for teaching and is an Assistant Professor with NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine (YLLSOM). As the NUS-NUH Otolaryngology Department Undergraduate Medical Director, Dr Ker Liang supervises the training of medical students from YLLSOM, NUS. She is actively involved
in the training of postgraduate junior doctors and residents in the Head and Neck Surgery department. She was conferred with an Undergraduate Teaching Award by the National University Health System in 2016 for her outstanding efforts as an Otolaryngology educator.
