Laryngoscopy is a diagnostic procedure used to examine the larynx (voice box) and surrounding structures. At SHIFAA PAN African Hospital, our ENT specialists perform laryngoscopy to evaluate and diagnose a wide range of voice and throat disorders, providing precise insights for effective treatment planning.

Procedure:

During laryngoscopy, a thin, flexible tube with a camera (laryngoscope) is inserted through the mouth or nose to visualize the larynx and vocal cords. The laryngoscope allows the ENT specialist to assess the structure and function of the larynx, vocal cords, and surrounding tissues. The procedure can be performed in an office setting or under sedation, depending on the patient’s comfort level and the extent of examination required.

Indications:

• Hoarseness: Laryngoscopy helps evaluate the cause of hoarseness or voice changes, such as vocal cord nodules, polyps, or laryngeal inflammation.
• Dysphagia: It aids in diagnosing swallowing disorders by assessing the movement and function of the vocal cords, epiglottis, and pharynx during swallowing.
• Chronic Cough: Laryngoscopy can identify laryngeal pathology contributing to chronic cough, such as vocal cord dysfunction or laryngopharyngeal reflux.
• Vocal Cord Lesions: It assists in detecting and characterizing vocal cord lesions, including cysts, nodules, granulomas, and tumors, for further evaluation and management.
• Airway Obstruction: Laryngoscopy is used to assess the airway for structural abnormalities, such as laryngeal stenosis, subglottic stenosis, or vocal cord paralysis, causing breathing difficulties.

Benefits of Nasal Endoscopy:

• Precise Diagnosis: Laryngoscopy provides direct visualization of the larynx and vocal cords, allowing for accurate diagnosis of voice and throat disorders.
• Tailored Treatment: By identifying specific laryngeal abnormalities, laryngoscopy enables ENT specialists to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s condition.
• Minimally Invasive: Laryngoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that can be performed in an office setting or as an outpatient procedure, minimizing discomfort and recovery time.
• Patient Comfort: Depending on the extent of examination required, laryngoscopy can be performed under local anesthesia or sedation to ensure patient comfort and cooperation during the procedure.
• Comprehensive Evaluation: It offers a comprehensive assessment of laryngeal anatomy and function, guiding appropriate management strategies for voice and throat disorders.

 

What is laryngoscopy, and why is it performed?

Laryngoscopy is a diagnostic procedure used to examine the larynx and vocal cords. It is performed to evaluate and diagnose voice and throat disorders such as hoarseness, dysphagia, and chronic cough.

 

How is laryngoscopy performed?

During laryngoscopy, a thin, flexible tube with a camera (laryngoscope) is inserted through the mouth or nose to visualize the larynx and vocal cords.

 

Is laryngoscopy painful?

Laryngoscopy is generally well-tolerated and minimally invasive. Patients may experience mild discomfort or gagging sensations during the procedure, but it is typically not painful.

 

What conditions can laryngoscopy diagnose?

Laryngoscopy can diagnose conditions such as vocal cord nodules, polyps, laryngeal inflammation, swallowing disorders, and airway obstruction.

 

Are there any risks associated with laryngoscopy?

Laryngoscopy is considered safe, with minimal risks. Rare complications may include throat irritation, mild bleeding, or allergic reactions to anesthesia.

 

How long does a laryngoscopy take?

Laryngoscopy is a quick procedure that typically takes 5 to 10 minutes to perform. It can be done in an office setting or as an outpatient procedure.

 

Can laryngoscopy guide treatment decisions?

Yes, laryngoscopy provides valuable diagnostic information that guides treatment decisions, allowing ENT specialists to develop personalized management plans tailored to the patient’s condition.

At SHIFAA PAN African Hospital, our ENT specialists utilize laryngoscopy as part of comprehensive evaluations to diagnose and manage various voice and throat disorders. With state-of-the-art technology and expertise in ENT care, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality diagnostic and treatment services for our patients’ ear, nose, and throat health.