Role of Video-stroboscopy Vs Video-Laryngoscopy in Hoarseness of Voice

Some pathologies of the larynx maybe missed on video-laryngoscopy which can be diagnosed on video-stroboscopy. Moreover, some pathologies can be diagnosed earlier, preventing reduced voice-related quality of life. Since the effective treatment of laryngeal pathologies is based on the correct diagnosis, this study was conducted to evaluate the added value of video-stroboscopy over video-laryngoscopy in patients with hoarseness of voice and to identify the pathologies in which video-stroboscopy has the maximum benefit over video-laryngoscopy. Prospective observational study of 76 patients presenting to out-patient department of otorhinolaryngology of our centre presenting with hoarseness of voice and fulfilling the inclusion criteria. Patients were subjected to thorough history taking and examination followed by video-laryngoscopy and video-stroboscopy by the same examiner. There was an addition in diagnosis on video-stroboscopy in 26 (34.21%) patients and a change in diagnosis in 29 (38.16%) patients. The maximum frequency of addition in diagnosis was seen in post-op vocal fold fibrosis (100%), Vocal nodules (66.66%) and the maximum frequency of change in diagnosis was seen in Presbylarynges, Rienke's Edema and Muscle tension dysphonia (100% each). Early vocal nodule (54.54%) was the most common diagnosis reached on video-stroboscopy where video-laryngoscopy was inconclusive. Video-stroboscopy is an effective modality for the diagnosis of vocal fold lesions and must be used in conjunction with video-laryngoscopy for evaluation of patients presenting with hoarseness of voice of early diagnosis and treatment. In this study we have identified pathologies that benefit the maximum from the use of video-stroboscopy over video-laryngoscopy.