Videolaryngoscopy. A comparison of fiberscopic and telescopic documentation.

Videolaryngoscopy is a most useful and effective method of evaluation and documentation of physiological and pathological conditions of the larynx. It is of great value for making accurate diagnosis and planning proper treatment. It permits instant and simultaneous voice and video recording and later analysis. Videolaryngoscopy can be accomplished with either a flexible fiberscope or a rigid right-angled telescope. Fiberscopic videolaryngoscopy is more useful for voice analysis of speech disorders and evaluation of such functions of the larynx as phonation, singing, and swallowing. Telescopic videolaryngoscopy is superior for critical evaluation of anatomical and pathological changes of the laryngeal structures as well as close-up examination of vocal cord function. While fiberscopic laryngoscopy is technically easy, fiberscopic video documentation is much more difficult than telescopic video documentation. Telescopic videolaryngoscopy provides clearer and sharper images of the larynx. Advantages and disadvantages of each method are discussed.