Autolaryngoscopy is a medical term used to describe a diagnostic procedure that involves examining the larynx using a flexible endoscope. The word is pronounced /ˌɔːtəʊlærəŋˈɡɒskəpi/ (aw-toh-luh-rang-gos-kuh-pee), which can be broken down into four parts: "auto" meaning self, "laryngo" referring to the larynx, "scopy" meaning observation, and finally "pi" indicating the act or process of. The correct spelling and pronunciation of this complex term are crucial for effective communication in the medical field.
Autolaryngoscopy is a medical procedure that involves visual examination and evaluation of the larynx by oneself using a specialized instrument called a laryngoscope. The term is a combination of "auto" (self) and "laryngoscopy" (examination of the larynx), emphasizing the self-performed nature of the procedure.
During autolaryngoscopy, a flexible or rigid laryngoscope is used to provide a direct view of the larynx. The laryngoscope is gently inserted through the mouth or nose and maneuvered into position, allowing the examiner to visualize the vocal cords, surrounding structures, and overall health of the larynx. The procedure may be conducted with or without local anesthesia, depending on the patient's comfort level and the extent of the examination required.
Autolaryngoscopy can aid in the diagnosis and evaluation of various conditions affecting the larynx, including vocal cord abnormalities, growths or lesions, vocal cord paralysis, inflammation, and functional or structural abnormalities. It is commonly performed by otolaryngologists (ear, nose, and throat specialists), speech-language pathologists, and other healthcare professionals with the appropriate training and expertise.
By directly visualizing the larynx, autolaryngoscopy provides valuable information for accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring of laryngeal disorders. It is a valuable tool in the field of voice medicine, allowing professionals to assess vocal cord functionality, detect abnormalities, and provide targeted interventions to optimize vocal health and function.
Inspection of one's own larynx.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "autolaryngoscopy" is derived from two parts: "auto" and "laryngoscopy".
1. "Auto" comes from the Greek word "autós", which means "self" or "one's own". In this context, it refers to a procedure or examination performed by oneself.
2. "Laryngoscopy" is a combination of the Greek roots "larynx" and "skopein". "Larynx" refers to the voice box, while "skopein" means "to look" or "to examine". "Laryngoscopy" is a medical procedure that involves visual examination of the larynx using a laryngoscope.
Therefore, "autolaryngoscopy" is a term that denotes the act of examining or visualizing one's own larynx using a laryngoscope.