Using a microscope, the voice chords are examined during a process called microlaryngoscopy. It is frequently used by surgeons to look for lesions such as cysts, polyps, and nodules.
With the use of a tiny microscope, surgeons can examine the vocal cords and larynx (voice box) up close during a minimally invasive procedure called micro laryngoscopy. A little tube is inserted into the mouth and down the throat to do this.
Your doctor may suggest this surgery if they believe you may have a vocal cord problem.
What you might want to know about microlaryngoscopy is provided here.
What is it?
An oral little tube will be inserted by a surgeon while you are under general anesthesia. The tube will be inserted into your throat.
The surgeon will remove any growths or lesions they find through this technique.
This surgery can also be used to surgically repair issues connected to the larynx or voice box. For example, a surgeon may do a gentle airway widening procedure to facilitate breathing.
Uses
Microlaryngoscopy is a common procedure used by ENT (ear, nose, and throat) surgeons to check for possible problems. Among the conditions they might be searching for are:
- Noncancerous vocal cord lesions: Polyps, cysts, and nodules are a few examples.
- Laryngeal cancer: They will search for malignant (cancerous) lesions to diagnose this type of cancer.
- Vocal fold paralysis: Speaking and breathing difficulties result from an interruption of the nerve impulses that supply the larynx.
- Subglottic stenosis: This is a constriction of the voice box’s airways that results in difficulties speaking or breathing.
- Stridor: This is a loud breathing pattern caused by airway narrowing or blockage.
According to a 2017 study, the treatment of numerous laryngeal disorders that result in hoarseness has been transformed by micro laryngoscopy. The goal of treatment is to preserve and safeguard the voice and throat.
What to expect
Here are some things to anticipate before, during, and following the micro laryngoscopy procedure.
Before
For precise advice about your particular condition, check with your surgeon if you have an upcoming microlaryngoscopy. Generally speaking, nevertheless, before the surgery, you should:
- Inform your surgeon of any prescription drugs or dietary supplements you are using.
- At least eight hours should pass before the surgery.
- Before the surgery, try not to smoke for at least one day, if not longer.
Your surgeon will frequently advise you to give up smoking before and after the operation.
During
When the treatment day arrives, you should anticipate:
- must undergo general anesthesia, a sedative that will keep you from sensing discomfort
- to examine your throat, the surgeon will put a hard tube through your mouth.
- that they might take biopsies of potentially malignant areas or remove growths using tiny surgical instruments
After
Less than an hour should pass during the process. After that, you ought to anticipate:
- awaken in the recovery area with a slight sedative haze
- need someone to drive you home
- return home on the same day
How long does recovery take?
Recovery from micro laryngoscopy is usually a straightforward procedure. Always heed the particular recommendations provided by your surgeon. In general, though, you should anticipate:
- feel uncomfortable or have a sore throat for a few days.
- Within a day following the surgery, return to your regular diet.
- go back to your regular activities in a few days.
- Observe the vocal rest instructions provided by your surgeon, which may include speaking less for a few days to a few weeks as your voice box heals.
If your surgeon has recommended vocal rest, you might need to temporarily restrict:
- clearing your throat
- coughing
- singing
- talking
- whispering
Possible risks and complications
A review published in 2022 states that suspending micro laryngoscopy is a safe and efficient treatment. It also has almost no risk of death and a minimal risk of complications.
The review states that the following are the most typical complications:
- a temporary sore throat
- tongue issues, like numbness, taste issues, or pain
- temporary oral mucous issues
- very rarely, dental injuries and minor facial burns
- voice changes
- bleeding
There could be issues with general anesthesia, such as:
- nausea
- grogginess
- a dry mouth
- muscle aches
Questions to ask your surgeon
Before having a micro laryngoscopy, you might wish to inquire with your surgeon about:
- How many of these procedures have you performed?
- What will my unique recovery look like?
- If this procedure doesn’t correct the issue, what are some alternatives?
- What’s your personal complication rate?
- How long will I need to rest my voice after the procedure?
- When can I expect to see an improvement in my symptoms?
The bottom line
A useful technique for identifying and managing a variety of voice box and airway disorders is micro laryngoscopy. It entails examining the throat with the aid of a tiny microscope that is tube-mounted. During this operation, a surgeon may remove lesions if necessary.
Despite being a surgical procedure, most people find it to be safe and have a short recovery period. Many patients who have micro laryngoscopy report immediate symptom relief, including easy breathing and unobstructed voice.