Laryngoscopy

Laryngoscopy is an exam of the voice box (larynx). It can be done using a small mirror held just below the back of your palate, or a rigid or flexible viewing tube called a laryngoscope placed in your mouth.

In some cases, you may need anesthesia.

Open References

References

King EF, Couch ME. History, physical examination, and the preoperative evaluation. In: Flint PW, Haughey BH, Lund LJ, et al, eds. Cummings Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2015:chap 4.

Laryngoscope - illustration

A laryngoscope is a rigid tubular device used to view the larynx.

Laryngoscope

illustration
Laryngoscopy - series

Presentation

<strong>Normal anatomy</strong><p>The larynx starts in the oropharynx, or back of the throat, and extends down to the trachea. It carries air from the mouth and nose to the trachea, and then to the lungs. </p>

<strong>Indications</strong><p>Growths, such as tumors, scar tissue, and lesions, can occur in the larynx. These growths often occur near the area of the vocal cords, which are located at approximately the midpoint of the larynx. </p>

<strong>Procedure, part 1</strong><p>Laryngoscopy is a technique in which a rigid laryngoscope is directed through the mouth and down the larynx. The larynx can be viewed through the laryngoscope, and instruments can be passed down the larynx through the laryngoscope. </p>

<strong>Procedure, part 2</strong><p>While the patient is deep asleep and pain-free (general anesthesia), lasers are used to burn away tumors or lesions, which are passed down the laryngoscope. Patients can often go home the same or following day after laryngoscopy. </p>

Laryngoscope - illustration

A laryngoscope is a rigid tubular device used to view the larynx.

Laryngoscope

illustration
Laryngoscopy - series

Presentation

Tests for Laryngoscopy

Review Date: 8/5/2015

Reviewed By: Sumana Jothi MD, specialist in laryngology, Clinical Instructor UCSF Otolaryngology, NCHCS VA, SFVA, San Francisco, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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Multimedia Encyclopedia

Laryngoscopy

References

Laryngoscope - illustration

Laryngoscope

Laryngoscopy - series

Laryngoscope - illustration

Laryngoscope

Laryngoscopy - series

Tests for Laryngoscopy

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