Vocal Cord Disorders Diagnosis

How Are Vocal Cord Disorders Diagnosed?

Any hoarseness or change in voice that lasts longer than two weeks should be brought to the attention of your physician. (Sometimes the hoarseness may be indicative of laryngeal cancer.) In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, the physician may examine the vocal cords internally with a small, long-handled mirror (a procedure called indirect laryngoscopy in which the mirror is inserted into the throat so parts of the larynx can be examined) or with a lighted tube (a procedure called direct laryngoscopy in which an instrument called a laryngoscope is inserted through the nose or mouth. The scope is lighted to provide a better view of the area than the indirect laryngoscopy.)