Laryngoscopy

Risks

All types of laryngoscopy have a small chance of causing swelling and blocking the airway. If you have a partially blocked airway because of tumours, polyps, or severe inflammation of the tissues at the back of the throat (epiglottitis), you may have a higher chance of problems.

If complete blockage of the airway occurs, which is rare, the doctor will make a cut (incision) in your neck to help you breathe (a tracheotomy).

If a biopsy was taken, there is a very small chance of bleeding, infection, or a tear in the airway.

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Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS	Last Updated: September 19, 2006
Medical Review:	Tom Bailey, MD - Family Medicine Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Charles M. Myer, III, MD - Otolaryngology
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