Tests and scans
This is a test to look at your voice box (larynx) and vocal cords while you speak. Your doctor uses a flexible endoscope. This is a thin tube that has a camera and light and is connected to a video monitor and recorder. It helps your doctor to see the movement of your vocal cords while you speak.
This test is also called a videolaryngoscopy with stroboscopy.
You have a video of your vocal cords to help your doctor see how they move when you speak. It also gives your doctor a chance to look for abnormal areas on your vocal cords and in your voice box.
There is no special preparation for this test.
You usually have this test in the outpatient clinic. You sit upright in a chair, your doctor will make sure you are comfortable before they start.
You have an anaesthetic spray to numb your throat first. It takes a few minutes for the area to go numb. They then pass the endoscope either up your nose or into your mouth and then down into your throat. It has a camera and fibre optic strobe light on the end, which your doctor uses to make a video of your vocal cords.
Your doctor will ask you to talk or make certain noises and they record this on the video. This allows them to see your vocal cords moving in slow motion and gives a clear picture of the area.
The test can take up to 20 minutes but often takes less time.
You can usually go home after the test.
Your throat and nose will stay numb for a while after the test. This might interfere with swallowing food and liquid normally. It's important not to eat or drink for two hours after the test.
Your nurse will let you know about any specific instructions you need to follow after the test.
The doctor will record the test and then replay the recording slowly. They will explain to you the findings of the test.
Last reviewed: 15 Jul 2024
Next review due: 15 Jul 2027
You usually have a number of tests to check for laryngeal cancer. The tests you might have include a camera test to look inside your nose and throat.
Laryngeal cancer is cancer that starts in the voice box (larynx). It is a type of head and neck cancer.
You might have surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy or a combination of treatments to treat laryngeal cancer.
Head and neck cancer is a general term that covers many different types of cancer in the head or neck area.
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