Laryngoscopy and Biopsy Procedure?

In case of prolonged throat and vocal problems, healthcare professionals perform a laryngoscopy and biopsy procedure to examine the insides of the larynx (voice box) and remove a sample of tissue (biopsy) for microscopic examination. Usual indications for laryngoscopy are voice problems (such as weak or hoarse voice), unexplained throat pain, difficulties in swallowing, injuries in the area of the voice box or suspicion that there is a lump or a foreign

Who Requires a Laryngoscopy and Biopsy Procedure?

Typical symptoms that indicate the requirement of a laryngoscopy and biopsy procedure include weak/hoarse voice, throat pain, discomfort when swallowing, and injuries in the area of the larynx. The problem lies in your larynx or voice box. The larynx fits inside your Adam's apple at the top of your windpipe. Inside your larynx, the vocal cords make your voice. They are not really cords. Usually a laryngoscopy and biopsy is recommended after an indirect laryngoscopy (looking down the throat with a mirror) fails to provide sufficient diagnostic information to a healthcare practitioner. It is usually recommended that patients opt for this procedure, since without it, the doctors cannot diagnose specific problems.

What Happens in a Laryngoscopy and Biopsy?

Patients are placed under general anesthesia, and the surgeon passes a special telescope-like instrument called a laryngoscope down the throat to examine the insides of the larynx. X-rays are not very good for showing the inside of the voice box. The only way for the surgeon to look inside the voice box and check it thoroughly is to use a telescope while your child is asleep If there is any swelling inside the larynx, the surgeon takes a sample of tissue using a small cutting instrument. This biopsy is sent for microscopic examination in a laboratory. Since the cut is very small, it heals naturally and no stitches are required.