Microlaryngoscopy

What is a microlaryngoscopy?

A microlaryngoscopy is a surgical procedure that allows a provider to view your vocal cords (also called vocal folds) with a microscope. During this procedure, your provider may also remove lesions (growths) from your vocal folds or correct movement disorders of your larynx (voice box). Microlaryngoscopy can also reduce narrowing of your larynx and trachea (windpipe).

Why would I need a microlaryngoscopy?

Your healthcare provider will typically recommend microlaryngoscopy if they detect a lesion on your larynx. During this test, your provider can treat:

• Noncancerous vocal fold lesions, such as nodules, polyps or cysts.
• Vocal fold motion disorders such as vocal fold paralysis.
• Signs of laryngeal cancer.
• Subglottic stenosis.

How does a microlaryngoscopy work?

Microlaryngoscopy allows your provider to see your vocal folds without surgical incisions. Providers use small instruments that fit directly in your mouth and throat.

During the procedure, your provider uses a rigid tube that helps them view your larynx directly. This tube is large enough to put one or two instruments in without obstructing their view.

Using the light and microscope, your provider examines your vocal folds and looks for changes or growths. Your provider may also use surgical tools to remove growths, such as a small scalpel, scissors and graspers. During a laser microlaryngoscopy, your provider may use a laser to remove lesions or growths.

How do I prepare for a microlaryngoscopy?

Microlaryngoscopy requires general anesthesia. You will be asleep and won’t feel any discomfort during the procedure. To prepare for anesthesia and a microlaryngoscopy:

• Don’t smoke for at least one day before your procedure. For the most benefits, stop smoking for at least two weeks before your procedure and for two weeks after.
• Stop eating and drinking for at least eight hours before your procedure, unless your provider tells you otherwise.
• Tell your provider about all the medications you take, including vitamins and supplements. You may need to stop taking some or all of them several days before your microlaryngoscopy.

What should I expect on the day of my microlaryngoscopy?

Your provider performs a microlaryngoscopy in an outpatient surgery center. Most people go home the same day.

You will be asleep for the procedure, and will wake up in a recovery area. After you’re fully awake, you can usually go home. You'll need someone to drive you home after the procedure.

How long is a microlaryngoscopy?

The length of your procedure depends on whether your provider removes any growths. Usually, a microlaryngoscopy procedure lasts one hour or less.

What should I expect after a microlaryngoscopy?

You may have a sore throat for a few days after your microlaryngoscopy. Typically you can resume a normal diet that day or the following day. Most people can return to normal activities within a few days. Your surgeon may also recommend complete vocal rest for a few days followed by reduced voice use for two to six weeks, depending on the surgery performed. When you’re on complete vocal rest, you avoid making any sounds with your voice, including:

• Clearing your throat.
• Coughing.
• Singing.
• Talking.
• Whispering.

What type of results will I get from my microlaryngoscopy?

A microlaryngoscopy can help your provider diagnose noncancerous or cancerous growths on your vocal folds. The test may also reveal problems with the way your vocal folds move. In most cases, the goal of surgery is to improve voice quality.

When will I get my results?

Your provider will most likely let you know what they saw after you’ve woken up from the anesthesia. If they saw anything abnormal during the procedure, your provider may have taken a biopsy (tissue sample). This sample goes to a lab, where technicians analyze it. You usually have the results from the lab within a few days.

A note from Cleveland Clinic

Microlaryngoscopy is an effective way for your provider to see your vocal folds while minimally invasively approaching through the mouth. This surgery can help diagnose vocal fold problems and remove the lesion for voice improvement.

When performed by an experienced, licensed provider, a microlaryngoscopy is safe. You can usually resume most of your activities within a few days, but follow your provider’s instructions on vocal rest and follow-up care.