Radiofrequency ablation of intubation granulomas

Abstract

Objective: We explored the outcomes and voice parameters of patients undergoing plasma radiofrequency (RF) ablation to treat intubation granulomas.

Study design: Prospective case series.

Methods and materials: Patients with intubation granulomas who met the inclusion criteria underwent RF ablation. The complete remission rate and voice function were evaluated preoperatively and at 6 months postoperatively.

Results: We enrolled 13 patients with 25 intubation granulomas. The mean time between intubation and initial diagnosis was 38.6 days and that between intubation and surgical diagnosis was 2.7 months. All 25 granulomas were successfully removed and histologically confirmed. No surgical remnant was evident on the vocal folds and complete glottal closure was observed at 2 weeks postoperatively. No recurrence or RF ablation-related complications were observed during the 6-month follow-up. The complete remission rate was 100% (13/13). In addition, the mean hoarseness, roughness, breathiness, asthenia, and strain (GRBAS) scores, and the maximum phonation time (MPT), improved significantly after treatment (all P < 0.05).

Conclusions: RF ablation is effective and safe for patients with intubation granulomas who failed medical management or request the procedure. In this study, the complete resolution rate was high and voice restoration outcomes were good.

Keywords: Intubation granuloma; Medical treatment; Radiofrequency; Recurrence.