Microlaryngoscopy
What is Microlaryngoscopy?
Microlaryngoscopy is a diagnostic and surgical procedure used to visualise and treat conditions of the larynx and vocal cords using a laryngoscope, a surgical microscope and sometimes an endoscope.
It allows precise assessment and removal or biopsy of lesions affecting voice quality or airway integrity.
Why is Microlaryngoscopy Performed?
Indications include:
1. Unilateral Vocal Cord Lesions – eg polyps, cysts, granulomas
2. Reinke’s Edema
3. Vocal Cord Leukoplakia / Dysplasia
4. Benign Laryngeal Tumours – eg papillomas
5. Laryngeal Cancer
6. Any suspicious lesions requiring biopsy to exclude malignancy
7. Airway obstruction at the level of the larynx – eg laryngeal web, tumour debulking
What Happens During the Operation?
1. Conducted under general anaesthesia to ensure patient comfort and immobility.
2. The surgeon inserts a rigid laryngoscope through the mouth to visualise the larynx.
3. A surgical microscope and a surgical endoscope provides detailed magnified views.
4. Lesions are precisely removed or biopsied with very fine instruments.
Typical duration: 20–40 minutes depending on pathology
Expected Recovery
- Same-day discharge
- Voice rest is usually recommended post-operatively.
- Temporary mild sore throat and mild voice changes can occur in the first few days.