What is laryngoscopy?
A laryngoscopy is a procedure Felipe J. Martinez MD performs to view your vocal cords and the space between them to check for abnormalities or problems in the throat or vocal cords. The procedure is routine and provides valuable information that may assist in confirming or ruling out a diagnosis.
You may want to consider scheduling a consultation at Felipe J. Martinez MD if you’re having voice problems or feel there is an issue with your throat that needs addressing.
Why would I need a laryngoscopy?
Felipe J. Martinez MD can review why you would benefit from a laryngoscopy. A recommendation for the procedure often occurs for patients who experience:
- Difficulty swallowing
- Sensations that something is stuck in your throat
- Prolonged hoarseness or other voice changes
- Chronic cough
- Noisy breathing
- Chronic, unexplained bad breath
- Ongoing ear pain
You may also need a laryngoscopy to evaluate lumps or masses found during a physical exam.
What can I expect during a laryngoscopy?
Your laryngoscopy at Felipe J. Martinez MD is a routine procedure performed at the office. The entire procedure only takes a few minutes, and a numbing agent is used to ease any discomfort. The laryngoscopy can trigger a gag reflex, and you should let your specialist know if your gag is sensitive so they can make adjustments to your procedure.
During laryngoscopy, your specialist at Felipe J. Martinez MD passes a small flexible telescope through your nose to your throat to evaluate the tissue and structures.
In some cases, you may undergo a procedure during your laryngoscopy, which may include a biopsy or removal of an object.
What happens after my laryngoscopy?
You may experience some throat irritation following your laryngoscopy, but any side effects should resolve within a few days of the test. Felipe J. Martinez MD may review the findings of your laryngoscopy immediately following the procedure or at a follow-up visit.
Your test may confirm or rule out conditions such as:
- Throat irritation from acid reflux
- Polyps on your voice box
- Cancer of the throat or voice box
- Vocal cord nodules
The information gathered during this routine procedure is then used to create your personalized treatment plan.
To learn more about the laryngoscopy, call Felipe J. Martinez MD or select the online booking button to schedule a consultation.
