Light on the Larynx: Understanding the Different Types of Laryngoscopy Procedures

A laryngoscopy is a procedure conducted by healthcare professionals to inspect your larynx, or voice box. They utilize a laryngoscope, which is a slim tube equipped with lights, a lens, and video cameras to closely observe your larynx. Additionally, the laryngoscope may contain instruments that can be used by the healthcare provider to extract tissue from your larynx.

What is laryngoscopy?

A doctor utilizes laryngoscopy to examine the larynx, which includes the vocal cords, as well as adjacent structures such as the throat’s back. Various forms of laryngoscopy exist.

• During a direct laryngoscopy, the physician has the option of utilizing various types of laryngoscopes. These instruments are slim and elongated, featuring a light source and either a lens or a small camera fitted at the end. To perform the procedure, the laryngoscope is inserted through either the nose or the mouth and down the throat. There are flexible laryngoscopes as well as rigid ones, and the decision on which type to employ relies on the purpose of the laryngoscopy.
• To conduct an indirect laryngoscopy, the physician shines a bright light at the throat’s rear by wearing headgear with an attached light source. They then utilize a small, angled mirror placed at the back of the throat to observe the vocal cords.

When Is Laryngoscopy Needed?

Your physician may perform this procedure in order to determine the cause of a persistent sore throat or to identify the underlying issue causing ongoing symptoms like coughing, hoarseness, or halitosis. Additionally, they may conduct this examination when:

• You have something stuck in your throat.
• You are experiencing difficulty with breathing or the act of swallowing.
• Your earache persists and doesn’t disappear.
• They have to investigate a potential indicator of a more severe medical issue, like cancer.
• They need to remove a growth.

Preparing for a laryngoscopy

It is necessary to make transportation arrangements to and from the procedure as you might be unable to drive for a few hours following the administration of anesthesia.

Have a conversation with your doctor regarding the details of the procedure, including how it will be carried out and the necessary preparations. Your doctor may advise you to refrain from eating or drinking anything for eight hours before the examination, depending on the type of anesthesia you will receive.

You do not need to maintain an empty stomach if you are given mild anesthesia, typically provided for exams conducted at your doctor’s office.

Make sure to inform your doctor about any medications you are currently taking. Your doctor may advise you to stop taking certain medications, such as aspirin and blood thinners like clopidogrel (Plavix), for up to one week before the procedure. Consult with your doctor to confirm if it is safe to stop taking any prescribed medication before doing so.

What happens during my laryngoscopy?

Typically, laryngoscopy can be performed on an outpatient basis, meaning there is no need for you to stay overnight in a hospital.

The way you undergo the test will vary depending on its type. It could involve lying down on a bed or table, or you may be allowed to remain seated. Prior to the test, a numbing medication will be sprayed on your mouth (or nose) and throat. In some cases, you may be given general anesthesia to be asleep during the test.

Once you are alert, the placement of the scope may initially trigger a cough, but this sensation will subside once the anesthesia takes effect.

The duration of a flexible laryngoscopy is typically around 10 minutes, while the length of other forms of laryngoscopy varies depending on the specific procedure being performed.

What happens after the procedure?

If you don’t have any other reasons to be in the hospital, you should be able to leave after a laryngoscopy. If you receive anesthesia during the procedure, it is advised to ask for someone to drive you back home.

The rate of recovery varies depending on the kind of laryngoscopy procedure, however, the majority of individuals will experience a speedy recovery in the comfort of their own homes. It is important to adhere to the post-operative guidelines provided and ensure you attend all scheduled follow-up appointments.

Interpreting the results

While undergoing laryngoscopy, the doctor might gather samples, eliminate abnormalities, or extract foreign objects from your throat. They may also perform a biopsy. Afterwards, the doctor will communicate the findings and discuss potential treatments or refer you to another specialist. If a biopsy was obtained, it will take three to five days to receive the results.

What are the benefits of a laryngoscopy?

Your physician is worried about a potential issue in your larynx. Utilizing a laryngoscopy is an effective method to determine the presence of any problems.

In the event that an issue is discovered by your surgeon, they have the ability to conduct biopsies, which involve the removal of small tissue samples, in order to assist in determining the diagnosis. In certain cases, the treatment can also be administered simultaneously.

In certain cases, individuals may have the option to undergo minor procedures simultaneously.

Treatment in Türkiye:

The medical staff of surgical teams, doctors, and consultants at REHABTÜRK can provide the best treatment options and free consultations, striving to stay up-to-date on the latest medical technologies and methods.

Ask for a free consultation.