Laryngoscopy
Laryngoscopy refers to a procedure used to view the inside of the larynx (the voice
box).
General information about a Laryngoscopy
The purpose and advantage of seeing inside the larynx is to detect tumors, foreign
bodies, nerve or structural injury, or other abnormalities. Two methods allow the larynx
to be seen directly during the examination. In one, a flexible tube with a fiber-optic
device is threaded through the nasal passage and down into the throat. The other method
uses a rigid viewing tube passed directly from the mouth, through the throat, into the
larynx. A light and lens affixed to the endoscope are used in both methods. The endoscopic
tube may also be equipped to suction debris or remove material for biopsy. Bronchoscopy is
a similar, but more extensive procedure in which the tube is continued through the larynx,
down into the trachea and bronchi.
What are the risk of a Laryngoscopy
This procedure carries no serious risks, although the patient may experience soreness
of the throat or cough up small amounts of blood until the irritation subsides. |