What is a laryngoscopy?

A laryngoscopy is a procedure to look at your voice box (larynx) to find out if there is a problem.

What are the benefits?

Your doctor is concerned that you may have a problem in your larynx. A laryngoscopy is a good way of finding out if there is a problem.

If your surgeon finds a problem, they can perform biopsies (removing small pieces of tissue) to help make the diagnosis. For some people, the treatment can be performed at the same time.

Are there any alternatives?

Your doctor has recommended a laryngoscopy as it is the best way of diagnosing most problems with your larynx.

Your doctor will usually have looked at your larynx using a flexible telescope (endoscope) or a smaller rigid telescope.

What will happen if I decide not to have a laryngoscopy?

Your doctor may not be able to confirm what the problem is.

If your doctor is concerned that you have a growth on your larynx, it is important to find out what has caused it as you may need further treatment.

What does the procedure involve?

A laryngoscopy is performed under a general anaesthetic (where you are sent to sleep). It usually takes about 30 minutes.

Your surgeon will place a rigid telescope (laryngoscope) into the back of your mouth to examine your larynx.

Your surgeon may be able to remove small problems from your larynx using surgical instruments or a laser. If you have a lump, they will be able to perform biopsies and take photographs to help make the diagnosis.

What complications can happen?

The healthcare team are trained to reduce the risk of complications.

Any risk rates given are taken from studies of people who have had this procedure. Your doctor may be able to tell you if the risk of a complication is higher or lower for you. Some risks are higher if you are older, obese, have other health problems or you smoke. Health problems include diabetes, heart disease or lung disease.

• sore throat
• breathing difficulties or heart irregularities
• allergic reaction to the equipment, materials or medication
• heart attack or stroke can happen if you have serious medical problems
• making a hole in your tongue or the lining of your throat. You will need to be admitted to hospital for further treatment which may include surgery.
• damage to teeth or bridgework, or bruised gums
• bleeding
• change in taste
• developing a hoarse voice
• airway fire, if anaesthetic gas in your airways catch fire during laser surgery
• chest infection — your risk will be lower if you have stopped smoking and you are free of Covid-19 (coronavirus) symptoms for at least 7 weeks before the procedure.

What happens after the procedure?

You will usually recover in about 2 hours.

If your doctor performed a biopsy, you may need to stay overnight and wait until the next morning before being given a drink. You may need to rest your voice for the first few days.

You should be able to return to work after a few days.

The healthcare team will tell you what was found during the laryngoscopy and discuss with you any treatment or follow-up care you may need.

Regular exercise should improve your long-term health. Before you start exercising, ask the healthcare team or your GP for advice.

Summary

A laryngoscopy is usually a safe and effective way of finding out if there is a problem with your larynx.

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