Management of Post-Surgical Case of Dysphonia through Ayurveda.
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Abstract
Persistent dysphonia following micro-laryngeal surgery is a major clinical challenge, often affecting voice-dependent individuals whose professional efficacy and social interactions depend on vocal clarity. Conventional treatment modalities ranging from structured voice therapy to revision surgery may occasionally fall short in delivering functional restoration, particularly when post-operative scarring, inflammation, or incomplete vibratory recovery are involved.
Ayurveda classifies voice disorders under Swarabheda (hoarseness of voice), attributing pathology to derangement of Swaravaha Srotas (vocal passage) caused by Dosha imbalance. This case report documents the management of Swarabheda in a 64-year-old male presenting with chronic hoarseness and whispered speech that persisted even after 6 weeks following micro-laryngeal surgery for a vocal fold nodule. Despite adherence to speech therapy protocols, the patient failed to regain phonatory strength and vocal clarity through conventional medicine.
Based on voice quality and characteristics, the case was diagnosed as Vataja Swarabheda. Intervention included Gandusha (oil pulling) using Yashtimadhu Taila as well as internal medications—Vyoshadi Gutika, Triphala Guggulu, Yashtimadhu Kwatha, Dashamoola Kwatha, and Saraswatharishta. Vocal progress was monitored using GRBASI perceptual scale (Grade, Roughness, Breathiness, Asthenia, Strain, and Instability) at baseline, mid-therapy, and post-treatment intervals. A marked reduction in total GRBASI score—from 15 to 7 over 30 days—was noted, indicating perceptible improvement in vocal strength, clarity, and effort.
This case demonstrates the therapeutic efficacy of Ayurveda in managing dysphonia, particularly when standard surgical and rehabilitative approaches fail. It highlights the need for integrating Ayurveda formulations having Kantya (throat soothing), Swarya (voice promoting), Shothahara (anti-inflammatory), Vranaropaka (mucosal restoratives), and Dosha-specific protocols in chronic voice disorders and advocates for future clinical trials to validate these outcomes larger and diverse patient populations.