2009-11-07 19:00:51 -

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During surgery and when someone is on a ventilator, there is a tube which is placed into the trachea. It passes through the vocal cords, which it displaces. When the tube is left for an extended period of time, irritation or ulceration of the vocal cords develop in response to the pressure of the endotracheal tube. A granuloma may form

in response to the chronic irritation.

Causes of Intubation Granuloma


The cartilage that holds the vocal cords in place, as well as the vocal cords themselves, are irritated and damaged by the presence of the plastic endotracheal tube passing through the larynx into the trachea.

Signs and Symptoms of Intubation Granuloma


The symptoms of intubation granuloma or ulcer include mild pain with swallowing and speaking. Hoarseness also occurs. The degree of symptoms relates to the degree of injury suffered by the vocal cords. Once the offending endotracheal tube is removed, the symptoms usually will gradually improve.

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