What does laryngoscopy mean?
Laryngoscopy is a medical examination of the larynx, the structure in the throat that contains the vocal cords and helps protect the airway during breathing and speech. It is usually performed with a laryngoscope or an endoscope, allowing a clinician to see the vocal cords and nearby tissues directly. The examination may be used to investigate hoarseness, throat discomfort, breathing difficulty, swallowing problems, or suspected lesions. Laryngoscopy can be performed directly, indirectly, or with a flexible scope, depending on the purpose and setting. In clinical reports, it is often mentioned alongside findings such as inflammation, vocal-cord motion, or the presence of abnormal tissue. Although the word comes from medical terminology and is not usually used in everyday conversation, it is a useful term for understanding how specialists assess voice and airway problems.
nounLaryngoscopy is the medical examination of the larynx, usually performed with a laryngoscope or endoscope to allow direct visualization of the vocal cords and surrounding structures. It is used to investigate problems involving the voice, breathing, throat pain, or suspected abnormalities.
- The visual examination of the larynx and vocal cords, usually with a laryngoscope or endoscope.
- The clinical procedure or examination performed to assess the larynx.
"The patient underwent flexible laryngoscopy to examine the vocal cords."
"Laryngoscopy revealed inflammation around the vocal cords."
"The surgeon performed laryngoscopy before deciding whether further treatment was necessary."
Used when referring to multiple examinations or procedures of this kind.
"The clinic performed several laryngoscopies to monitor the patient's vocal cords."
Laryngoscopy puts the vocal cords on display, making the hidden mechanics of speech directly visible.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does laryngoscopy come from?
The word combines the Greek term larynx, referring to the larynx or voice-box structure, with the Greek-derived suffix -scopy, meaning examination or observation. The related word laryngoscope names the instrument used to view the larynx, while laryngologist and laryngitis come from the same anatomical root. The development of increasingly small and flexible optical instruments made direct visual examination of the larynx a standard diagnostic practice.
Related word forms
How laryngoscopy is actually used
The term is primarily used in medicine, otolaryngology, and speech-language pathology. The exact technique may be direct, indirect, or flexible depending on the clinical context.
Easily confused with laryngoscopy
Laryngoscopy examines the larynx and vocal cords, whereas bronchoscopy examines the trachea and bronchi.
Laryngoscopy examines the larynx, while otoscopy examines the external ear canal and eardrum.