Preliminary study of rhinolaryngoscopy by family physicians

Flexible fiberoptic rhinolaryngoscopy is an examination technique which has been widely accepted by otolaryngologists. Usefulness and acceptability of the technique was assessed in symptomatic patients in a family practice population. Collaborating family physicians performed 66 examinations, which required 4.6 +/- 0.60 minutes (mean +/- SD) to complete. The median patient discomfort score was 2 on a 0-10 scale ranging from "no discomfort" to "severe discomfort." Change in diagnosis by the primary physician was made in 13 of 18 patients, and change in management plan in 10 of 12 patients, after the examination. Important findings included primary diagnosis of a laryngeal carcinoma, unsuspected nasal polyps, and normal examinations of high quality. These preliminary findings suggest that flexible fiberoptic rhinolaryngoscopy by family physicians is a useful examination, requires little time, and is acceptable to patients. Further study is suggested before general use is advocated.