What postoperative position is recommended after laser removal of vocal cord polyps?

What postoperative position is recommended after laser removal of vocal cord polyps?

• A. Prone with his head on a pillow
• B. Reverse Trendelenburg with the neck extended
• C. Semi-Fowler's with the neck flexed
• D. Supine with his neck hyperextended and supported with a pillow

Answer: (C)

After laser removal of vocal cord polyps, protecting the airway and minimizing postoperative edema at the surgical site are top priorities. Elevating the head of the bed to a semi-Fowler’s position helps reduce facial, neck, and laryngeal edema and improves ventilation, making airway obstruction less likely. Adding a gentle neck flexion keeps the larynx in a more neutral, protected alignment and reduces movement or strain on the healing vocal cords, which supports secure healing of the operative area. Other positions could worsen airway patency or put extra stress on the throat tissues, increasing the risk of edema, bleeding, or disruption of the surgical site.

After laser removal of vocal cord polyps, protecting the airway and minimizing postoperative edema at the surgical site are top priorities. Elevating the head of the bed to a semi-Fowler’s position helps reduce facial, neck, and laryngeal edema and improves ventilation, making airway obstruction less likely. Adding a gentle neck flexion keeps the larynx in a more neutral, protected alignment and reduces movement or strain on the healing vocal cords, which supports secure healing of the operative area. Other positions could worsen airway patency or put extra stress on the throat tissues, increasing the risk of edema, bleeding, or disruption of the surgical site.