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Laryngeal videostroboscopy (also known as laryngovideostroboscopy or video strobe laryngoscopy) is an important diagnostic tool that allows an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist to view the vocal cords in your larynx (voice box) in slow motion.
It uses a stroboscopic lamp, which gives out regular flashes of light. Either a rigid endoscope through the mouth or a flexible endoscope through the nose may be used to visualise the voice box after applying local anaesthetic.
Video pictures are then recorded while the patient is talking, singing or whistling and studied by the specialist.
Why do you need a laryngeal videostroboscopy?
A laryngeal videostroboscopy is used to diagnose voice disorders. These include:
Chronic laryngitis, which is inflammation of the vocal cords that last for more than 3 weeks.
Hoarseness, which can be due to overuse, polyps, acid reflux or other reasons.
Globus sensation, or the feeling of a lump in the throat.
During the procedure, your doctor will assess the situation and decide whether voice therapy, surgery or a watch-and-wait approach will be needed.
What are the risks and complications of a laryngeal videostroboscopy?
Problems are rare, but some complications that may arise from a laryngeal videostroboscopy include:
Bleeding
Gagging or vomiting
How do you prepare for a laryngeal videostroboscopy?
Before your test, your doctor may advise you to:
Not eat or drink anything before your procedure
Stop taking medication for a period of time
Take an X-ray or do other imaging tests
What can you expect in a laryngeal videostroboscopy?
A laryngeal videostroboscopy usually takes a few minutes and is performed with local anaesthetic.
During the procedure
During the videostroboscopy procedure, you will be in a seated upright position. The doctor will apply an anaesthetic spray in your nose to numb the nasal passage and throat.
Either a rigid endoscope is inserted through your mouth or a flexible endoscope is inserted through your nose, to look downwards at your voice box.
A stroboscopic lamp, which gives out regular flashes of light, is used to help record video pictures of your vocal cords while you talk, sing or whistle.
After the procedure
You should be able to go home right after the procedure and go about your activities as normal.
Do let your doctor know if you have a nosebleed that does not go away.
