Laryngeal Stroboscopy

Laryngeal stroboscopy (synonym: laryngeal stroboscopy) is a procedure performed in otolaryngology. It involves using a stroboscope to visualize the rapid movements of the vocal folds by flashing light during laryngoscopy (laryngoscopy).

Indications (areas of application)

  • Suspected functional voice disorders – these include, in particular, hoarseness or pain in the throat area after prolonged speech; functional voice disorders are caused by incorrect strain or overload of the vocal apparatus
  • Vocal cord changes such as laryngeal carcinoma (cancer of the larynx) or inflammation (assessment of vocal fold function during phonation (voice and sound formation): regular stroboscopic examinations allow early detection of infiltrative vocal fold processes. Mucosal changes that infiltrate the vocal fold muscles lead to a stroboscopic (phonatory) arrest. If this stagnation persists for 2-3 weeks, the indication for microlaryngoscopic sample excision (tissue sampling) is given)!

The procedure

To make the rapid movements of the vocal folds visible, a stroboscope is used. This is connected to the laryngoscope for this purpose and the light flashes are synchronized with the vocal fold movements. This makes it look on the images as if the vocal folds are standing still.

This examination can be used to assess the structure of the vocal folds.

Stroboscopy is a simple and quick, non-painful examination option in otolaryngology.

Possible complications

  • Injury to the turbinate mucosa (superior nasal concha) or nasal septum with subsequent bleeding (when advancing the endoscope through the inferior nasal access)
  • Tears of the mucous membrane (extremely rare)
  • Mucosal lesions with subsequent scarring and stenosis (narrowing) of the nasal cavity (this extends from the nasal valves to the posterior nasal openings (choanae)), possibly with adhesion (adhesion) of the turbinate to the nasal septum (rare). This can lead to obstruction of nasal breathing.
  • Injury to the mucosa of the laryngeal inlet and lower areas of the pharynx (very rare).
  • Swelling of the mucosa in the area of the laryngeal inlet. This may require inpatient monitoring.