Intermediate
Technical
IVT
cordectomy
Pronunciation: KOR-dek-toh-mee
Surgical removal of part or all of a vocal cord, typically for early laryngeal cancer.
Full Definition
Cordectomy is the surgical excision of vocal cord tissue, ranging from partial removal of the vocal cord edge to complete unilateral vocal cord removal. This procedure is commonly performed for early-stage glottic cancers and selected benign lesions. The extent of cordectomy is classified by the European Laryngological Society system, with types ranging from subepithelial cordectomy to extended cordectomy involving arytenoid cartilage. Voice outcomes vary significantly based on the extent of resection and patient factors.
Usage
Usage note: Include ELS classification type when documenting extent of cordectomy.
In Context
- "Type II cordectomy was performed with clear margins confirmed by frozen section." — Surgical pathology report
- "The patient was counseled on voice changes expected after cordectomy." — Preoperative consultation note
Also known as
vocal cord excision
vocal cord resection
Contrasted with
vocal cord reconstruction
cord augmentation
Don't confuse with
laryngectomy
arytenoidectomy