LARYNGOSCOPY

General Information

DEFINITION--Procedure that allows visual examination and some treatment of the larynx (voice box).

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Larynx, structure at the top of the windpipe that controls the voice.

REASONS FOR SURGERY

• To remove laryngeal polyps, singer's nodules and other benign growths.
• To remove enough tissue to biopsy.
• To assess vocal cord mobility.

SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH

• Adults over 60.
• Obesity; smoking.
• Poor nutrition.
• Recent illness or chronic illness.
• Excess alcohol consumption.
• Use of drugs such as: antihypertensives; muscle relaxants; tranquilizers; sleep inducers; insulin; sedatives; beta-adrenergic blockers; or cortisone.
• Use of mind-altering drugs, including: narcotics; psychedelics; hallucinogens; marijuana; sedatives; hypnotics; or cocaine.

What To Expect

WHO OPERATES--Ear, nose and throat specialist (otolaryngologist).

WHERE PERFORMED--Hospital or outpatient surgical facility.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

• Before surgery: Blood and urine studies.
• After surgery: Microscopic examination of removed tissue.

ANESTHESIA--Local anesthesia spray or general anesthesia.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• A fiberoptic laryngoscope is passed through the mouth and pharynx to extend to the larynx (voice-box).
• The larynx is examined visually by the operator.
• Specimens may be removed by snare to study for nodules, polyps or malignant changes.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Excessive bleeding.
• Swelling of tissues in the neck.

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY--Usually no more than 1 day.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Complete recovery if growth is benign. If growth is malignant, larynx removal may be necessary (see in Surgery section).

Postoperative Care

GENERAL MEASURES

• Keep your head elevated.
• Don't try to talk. Communicate by writing messages.
• Consult a speech therapist if your doctor recommends.
• No smoking.

† You may use non--

prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.

• Avoid aspirin.

ACTIVITY---Return to daily activities and work as soon as possible.

DIET---No special diet.

Call Your Doctor If

† Pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding increases in the surgical area.

• You develop signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever.
• You develop swelling in neck, coughing up of blood.