n endoscope system with a camera is used to examine your larynx and vocal cords. This examination with the endoscope can be performed either through the mouth or the nose. In the vast majority of patients, both methods can be performed without significant difficulty.
During the examination, pain or discomfort is not expected. However, depending on the individual, a gag reflex may occur. To prevent this, a local anesthetic spray may sometimes be applied to the throat or nose before the procedure. Taking deep breaths, focusing on positive thoughts, paying attention to your doctor’s instructions, or saying the vowel sound “ee” as requested can significantly reduce the gag reflex and make the examination more comfortable.
For an effective evaluation of the vocal cords, laryngostroboscopic examination is essential. In this procedure, the endoscope is used together with stroboscopic light. Normally, the vibrations of the vocal cords are too fast to be distinguished by the naked eye (the vocal cords vibrate approximately 100–150 times per second in men, 200–250 times per second in women, and about 300 times per second in infants). Thanks to stroboscopic light, these vibrations can be observed in slow motion. This provides detailed information about both the vibrations of the vocal cords and any possible vocal cord disorders.