Laryngology

Laryngology is a medical specialty within otolaryngology (ENT) focused on the larynx, including its anatomy, physiology, and pathologies. Practitioners diagnose and treat conditions affecting voice, breathing, and swallowing related to the larynx.

The larynx houses the vocal folds (cords) and acts as the gateway between the upper and lower airway. It enables voice production through vocal fold vibration, protects the lower airway during swallowing, and assists in coughing and airway clearance. Laryngology covers pediatric and adult care.

Diagnosis relies on patient history, endoscopic examination, and specialized imaging. Methods include indirect and direct laryngoscopy, videostroboscopy to assess vocal fold vibration, and imaging such as CT or MRI for tumors or structural lesions. Multidisciplinary assessment may involve speech-language pathology for voice evaluation.

Common conditions include hoarseness and voice disorders (nodules, polyps, stenosis, vocal fold paralysis, spasmodic dysphonia), laryngitis, gastroesophageal reflux-related laryngeal irritation, laryngeal trauma, airway obstruction, and laryngeal cancer. Pediatric laryngology also addresses congenital and developmental airway disorders and pediatric voice issues.

Treatments range from medical management (antibiotics, anti-reflux therapy, allergy control) and voice therapy to surgical interventions. Surgeries include microlaryngoscopy, laser microsurgery, and injection augmentation; procedures for glottic insufficiency (thyroplasty) and airway restoration. Advanced cancers may require transoral resections or partial/total laryngectomy.

Laryngology training is pursued by otolaryngologists who complete fellowships in laryngology or voice surgery. The field emphasizes voice science, rehabilitation, and collaboration with speech-language pathologists and oncologic surgeons to improve vocal function, airway safety, and swallowing.