Conventional endoscopy versus virtual laryngoscopy in assessment of laryngeal lesions

Abstract Background Virtual laryngoscopy is a non invasive computed tomography based technique that allows dynamic intra-luminal laryngeal evaluation resembling direct laryngoscopy. Objective The aim of this prospective study is to evaluate the accuracy, clinical value and limitation of VL in the diagnosis of laryngeal masses in comparison to conventional laryngoscopy. Patients and methods Forty-two (42) patients with different laryngeal lesions (VL) was performed through advantage window navigation system (GE) using volume rendering reconstruction fly and through technique to navigate the laryngeal lumen. Results Forty-two patients with different laryngeal pathology were examined, hoarseness of voice in 27 patients 67.5%, stridor in 17 cases 42.5%, followed by chronic cough in 11 patients 27.5%, the laryngeal lesions was 18 carcinoma 45%, 13 subglottic stenosis 32.5%, 6 polyps 15%, 2 nodules 5% and 1 papilloma 2.5%, direct laryngoscopy was performed for 40 patients and all cases were pathologically proved. Conclusion VL is an additive tool in conjunction with the direct laryngoscopy and easily reaches the lower limit of the lesion compared to direct laryngoscopy.