Can a Granuloma Be Caused by a Motor Vehicle Accident?

Question

Answer

Vocal fold granulomas are benign lesions that typically occur on the vocal process of the arytenoid cartilages. They are due to irritation of the mucosa that creates an ulceration and/or granulation tissue that is then epithelialized. It is unlikely that a motor vehicle accident would cause a granuloma. It would be difficult to damage the laryngeal mucosa without mechanical impact on the larynx. Laryngeal granulomas are often associated with intubation or extubation injuries to the muscosa, impact stress from phonotraumatic behaviors such as a hyperfunctional speaking technique, chronic throat clearing/coughing, and laryngopharyngeal reflux. Some laryngeal granulomas resolve on their own or with reflux medication but otherwise require surgery to excise them.

Lori Lombard, PhD is a Professor at Indiana University of Pennsylvania specializing in voice and laryngectomy rehabilitation. She has over ten years experience in the evaluation and treatment of voice disorders from the University of Pittsburgh Voice Center.