Laryngoscopy

Laryngoscopy is a medical procedure used to examine the larynx (voice box), vocal cords, and surrounding structures. It helps diagnose and treat conditions affecting voice, breathing, and swallowing. The procedure can be direct (using a laryngoscope inserted through the mouth) or indirect (using a small mirror or a flexible fiber-optic scope).

Causes

A doctor may recommend laryngoscopy for various reasons, including persistent hoarseness, chronic cough, throat pain, difficulty swallowing, unexplained voice changes, or suspected growths like nodules, polyps, or tumors. It is also done to investigate airway obstructions, vocal cord paralysis, or chronic laryngitis. In some cases, it is used for foreign body removal or during surgeries involving the throat.

Symptoms Leading to Laryngoscopy

Patients who require this test may experience:

• Hoarseness or voice changes lasting more than two weeks
• Persistent sore throat without infection
• Difficulty breathing or noisy breathing (stridor)
• A sensation of a lump in the throat
• Unexplained coughing or blood in saliva
• Swallowing difficulties or pain

Treatment Through Laryngoscopy

Besides diagnosis, laryngoscopy can also be therapeutic. Small growths, polyps, or foreign bodies can be removed during the procedure. If infection or inflammation is detected, appropriate medications like antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, or voice rest may be advised. For more serious findings such as tumors, biopsy samples can be taken for further evaluation, leading to surgical or oncological treatment if required.

Laryngoscopy is generally safe, performed under local or general anesthesia depending on the type, and allows early detection and management of potentially serious throat and vocal cord conditions.