Microlaryngoscopy is a test that is performed primarily in the early diagnosis of laryngeal cancer, as well as to collect a specimen from the larynx for histopathological examination. What other indications for microlaryngoscopy are there? How is the test carried out?

Microlaryngoscopyinvolves viewingof the larynxwith a laryngeal microscope, after putting on and fixing an apparatus called a laryngoscope. Microlaryngoscopy allows you to take samples for examination. In addition, during this examination it is possible to remove such lesions as cysts, cysts, polyps, papillomas, singing nodules, and even foreign bodies in the larynx. It is also possible to perform a choredectomy, i.e. excision of the vocal fold in low-advanced laryngeal cancer, decoration, i.e. removal of the overgrown mucosa of the vocal folds (e.g. in the course of Reinke's edema), and widening of the narrowed glottis.

Microlaryngoscopy: indications

The primary indication for this test is the presence of symptoms of laryngeal cancer, such as:

  • chronic hoarseness
  • voice timbre change
  • his martyrdom and even silence
  • pain when swallowing and swallowing disorders
  • earache
  • intermittent shortness of breath
  • cough
  • foreign body sensation in the larynx.

Microlaryngoscopy: preparation for the examination

As microlaryngoscopy is a procedure performed under general anesthesia, you should report allergy to drugs, hemorrhagic diathesis, or possible pregnancy to your doctor. Before the procedure, the doctor also orders basic diagnostic tests - blood count, chest X-ray and ECG. Before the examination itself, the bladder should be emptied and dentures should be removed, as they may impede intubation.

Microlaryngoscopy: the course of the examination

Microlaryngoscopy is performed under general anesthesia. For the examination, the doctor will ask you to lie on your back. After intubating your head, your head will be tilted back. The examiner will attach a laryngoscope to the metal rod on your chest. This camera is usually additionally equipped with an optical system connected to the monitor. The laryngeal microscope is behind your head. It is controlled by the feet by a doctor so that he can exercise if necessaryprocedures (e.g. widening of the narrowed glottis). If necessary, the doctor will also collect tissue fragments for histopathological examination. The examination can be performed in patients of all ages. However, you cannot do it if you are pregnant.

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