Clinical significance of high resolution ultrasonography vis-à -vis laryngoscopy in laryngeal pathologies

Abstract

Introduction: Larynx is a seat of a host of benign and malignant conditions. Conventionally, otolaryngologists have relied upon laryngoscopy in making a diagnosis. However, this simple doctor's office tool suffers from several limitations and flaws. In such a clinical landscape, a completely nonintrusive high-resolution ultrasonography examination can play a significant complementary role by defining the precise extent of the pathologic process. This prospective cross-sectional study, possibly the first of its kind in India, endeavours to define this synergetic relationship. Patients and Methods: A total of 60 patients with diverse undiagnosed laryngeal pathologies were taken up for the study. Those with proven laryngeal carcinoma and (or) past laryngeal surgery were excluded. Results: HRUS was found to be valuable in detecting laryngeal growth (78.57%), vocal cord polyp (66.67%), vocal cord nodule (10%), vocal cord palsy/paresis (66.67%), chronic laryngitis (17.64%), and Reinke's edema (50%). Conclusion: Compared to laryngoscopy, the role of HRUS is limited except in laryngeal lesions such as laryngeal growth and vocal cord polyp. HRUS can augment rather than replace conventional laryngoscopy in the diagnosis of laryngeal lesions.