Operating videoscope for microlaryngeal surgery

For operative laryngoscopy, a laryngoscope is introduced into the anesthetized patient's mouth for exploration of the larynx and vocal cords. To improve the vision, a binocular microscope is positioned between the operator and the laryngoscope. This interferes, to some degree, with the introduction of instruments, particularly if the surgeon is using bimanual manipulation. In the case of lengthy operations, a fatigue or stress factor can be troublesome to the operator. The authors developed a video laryngoscope using standard blades. An angulated telescope attached to a TV camera was introduced in the top portion of the blade. An enlarged image from the anatomy was produced and viewed from a convenient distance. The manipulations are unobstructed, and simultaneous records can be obtained. It is the method of choice for teaching. The operative laryngoscope is less cumbersome and supersedes the microscope for viewing the endolarynx. This new technique was used successfully in 532 cases.