Fiber Optic Laryngoscopy for Head and Neck Cancer: Technique, Limitation and Applications

Abstract

Physical examination in the field of head and neck cancer need high accuracy for diagnosis and treatment planning. Because of the narrowing and complexity of anatomy, it could probably preculde the examination to these area. Fiber Optic Laryngoscope (FOL) was the instrument of choice for the accessible and obviously visible examination, in addition, it is used for the pathologic diagnosis from the lesion biopsy. Although, FOL was popular among Otorhinolaryngologist, head and neck surgeon, according to variability in technique, training protocol or experience of physician could make the different efficacy. The inappropriate technique could cause of missing some finding which should be founded. Reviewing the related literature showed the techniques such as local anesthesia methods that were various and inconclusive. The position of patient during FOL was key to success in finding the occult lesion. Furthermore, the author also suggested some additional technique and limitations from the experience for the improvement of procedure to be more correct and effective