Laryngoscopy

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 minor treatments can be performed at the same time.

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.

A laryngoscopy is performed under a general anaesthetic and 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.

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 you need.

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

• Sore throat
• Breathing difficulties or heart irregularities
• Heart attack or stroke
• Making a hole in your tongue or the lining of your throat
• Damage to teeth or bridgework, or bruised gums
• Bleeding
• Change in taste
• Developing a hoarse voice
• Airway fire, if oxygen in your airways catches fire during laser surgery