Microlaryngoscopy and oesophagoscopy is a procedure performed under general anaesthetic to examine the inside of the voice box (larynx), throat (pharynx), upper windpipe (trachea), and oesophagus (the food pipe) in close detail. It is commonly performed to assess symptoms such as persistent hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, throat pain, or to investigate abnormal findings seen on imaging or during clinic examination.
During the procedure, Dr Phillips may take a biopsy (small tissue sample) from any abnormal areas to help diagnose infections, inflammation, or rule out cancer.
You may be referred for microlaryngoscopy and oesophagoscopy for one or more of the following reasons:
Microlaryngoscopy and oesophagoscopy are generally safe, but all procedures carry some risks. These include:
Dr Phillips will discuss these risks with you and answer any questions you may have before the procedure.
Other investigations such as flexible nasendoscopy (done in clinic) or imaging scans can give helpful information, but they do not allow for biopsies or as detailed a view. Microlaryngoscopy and oesophagoscopy remains the most accurate way to examine these areas and obtain tissue samples if needed.
You must not eat or drink before the procedure. Typical fasting times are:
You will receive specific instructions from the hospital or anaesthetist.
Please inform Dr Phillips if you are taking:
Some of these may need to be stopped or adjusted before surgery.
If you become unwell with a fever, cough, cold, or infection in the days before your surgery, please contact the clinic as the procedure may need to be postponed.
Contact our clinic or seek medical care if you experience:
These symptoms are rare but should be reviewed promptly if they occur.
A follow-up appointment will be organised to:
If you have any concerns before this, our clinic is available to assist you.
This procedure is mainly for diagnosis. If a treatable cause is found, Dr Phillips will discuss treatment options with you afterward.
No. The entire procedure is done through the mouth, with no external cuts.
No. As you will have had a general anaesthetic, you must have someone drive you home and stay with you for 24 hours.
Most people return to work within 1–2 days, depending on how they feel and the nature of their work.
Yes, although your voice may be hoarse for a few days, especially if a biopsy was taken near the vocal cords.
If you’d like to discuss this procedure or explore suitable treatment options, please get in touch with Dr Nicholas Phillips’ clinic.
To book with Dr Phillips, you’ll need a referral from your GP or specialist. Questions? Call our team — we’re happy to help.
