Camera test
Laryngoscopy
A laryngoscopy is an examination of the voice box (larynx) and throat, usually using a small flexible camera passed through the nose.
Quick answer
Laryngoscopy: what it is and what the results mean
A laryngoscopy lets a doctor look at the larynx (voice box), vocal cords and back of the throat. It is most often done with a thin flexible endoscope passed through the nose (nasendoscopy), or occasionally with a rigid scope under anaesthetic.
- Why it is done: It is used to investigate a persistent hoarse voice, a lump in the throat sensation, difficulty swallowing, noisy breathing, a persistent cough or throat pain, and to look for growths, inflammation or vocal cord problems.
- Understanding results: The doctor can usually describe what was seen straight away — such as normal cords, inflammation, nodules, polyps or a suspicious area — and explain whether further tests, biopsy or treatment are needed.
What it is
A laryngoscopy lets a doctor look at the larynx (voice box), vocal cords and back of the throat. It is most often done with a thin flexible endoscope passed through the nose (nasendoscopy), or occasionally with a rigid scope under anaesthetic.
Why it is done
It is used to investigate a persistent hoarse voice, a lump in the throat sensation, difficulty swallowing, noisy breathing, a persistent cough or throat pain, and to look for growths, inflammation or vocal cord problems.
What to expect
For a flexible laryngoscopy in clinic, numbing spray may be used in the nose. The thin camera is passed through a nostril to the throat while you breathe normally and make some sounds. It takes only a few minutes and is usually well tolerated.
Understanding the results
The doctor can usually describe what was seen straight away — such as normal cords, inflammation, nodules, polyps or a suspicious area — and explain whether further tests, biopsy or treatment are needed.
Good to know
Risks and limitations
Flexible laryngoscopy is very safe, with mild discomfort, watering eyes or gagging. A rigid laryngoscopy under general anaesthetic carries the usual anaesthetic risks but allows biopsies and treatment.
Education and reference only. This explains the test in general terms and is not medical advice. Always follow the specific instructions from the team arranging your test, and discuss your results with your clinician.
Answers
Laryngoscopy: frequently asked questions
Does a laryngoscopy through the nose hurt?
It is usually more uncomfortable than painful — you may feel an odd sensation, watering eyes or a brief urge to gag. Numbing spray helps, and the camera is very thin.
Why check the voice box for a hoarse voice?
A hoarse voice lasting more than about three weeks needs the vocal cords examined to rule out serious causes and to identify treatable problems such as nodules, polyps or reflux.
Related tests
Other camera test investigations
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — diagnostic guidance
- Relevant royal college / professional body
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