Flexible endoscopy with topical anesthesia allows a good view of the
nasal passages and throat. It is a diagnostic procedure that can detect
disease in its earliest stages. Patients with a high risk for development
of laryngeal cancer will need regular examinations.
Topical anesthesia is used in the nasal cavity. The scope is passed through
the nose to view the nasopharynx and larynx. This procedure is well tolerated
by most patients.
The normal anatomy of the throat including the epiglottis, vocal cords,
and their mobility can be viewed through the endoscope. The findings will
explain problems with hoarseness and phonation.
Abnormal nodules, polyps, chronic laryngitis, and throat cancer can be diagnosed
and followed. Note the following endoscopic views of the larynx taken from
the Atlas of Ear, Nose and Throat Diseases.
