This clip explains that a paralyzed vocal cord can cause an airy, weak voice that may go very high, and severe cases may require surgical intervention. Treatment options discussed include injecting the vocal cord to bulk it up or placing a prosthesis to move the cord so the other cord does not have to travel as far to meet it. Mild or moderate paralysis or weakness (often called a palsy) can recover over time, with potential improvement for up to about a year, while full paralysis does not regain movement. The script notes that after initial post-surgery voice rest, if the voice still is not working well after a couple of weeks, starting voice therapy is advisable.
