How a Throat Biopsy is Performed to Check for Throat Cancer
When a throat mass is discovered during the evaluation of throat complaints of soreness, trouble swallowing, globus, and/or a hoarse voice, a biopsy to evaluate for cancer is inevitably performed after appropriate testing. So, how is a throat biopsy performed? A throat biopsy requires general anesthesia to prevent any gagging and to safeguard the airway. After intubation, a mouthguard is placed to protect the upper teeth from chipping or cracking. A special instrument called a direct laryngoscope is then used to visualize the throat mass. Through this instrument, a cup forcep is inserted down to where the mass is located and a tissue specimen is obtained. The specimen is then sent to pathology where it will be processed to evaluate under the microscope and provide a definitive diagnosis of the mass.
While the patient is sedated, it is common to also check the esophagus for any masses as well. Once the sedated exam has been completed and all biopsies obtained of any abnormal masses, the mouthguard is removed and the patient allowed to awaken and extubated. Biopsy results are typically obtained within a week, but sometimes can take longer if special stains are required.
For VOCAL CORD masses, biopsy is performed differently. Watch this video instead:
https://youtu.be/OMyKwZa6sis
Video of Neck Mass Evaluation:
https://youtu.be/BlBmhC_i1kY
7 Different Causes of Neck Masses:
https://youtu.be/pUeXfk9-F7I
Video created by Dr. Christopher Chang:
https://www.FauquierENT.net
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#throatcancer #throatbiopsy #endoscopy #otolaryngology
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