[Application of CT virtual endoscopy in larynx].

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the clinical application of CT virtual endoscopy in larynx.

METHODS

The virtual endoscopy images were compared with that of actual laryngoscopy in 16 patients(4 normal larynx, 9 laryngeal carcinomas, 1 bilateral glottic polyps, one laryngeal fibrous hyperplasis and 1 airway striction caused by infiltration of the laryngeal carcinoma after laryngectomy). All the lesions were pathologically proved.

RESULTS

CT virtual endoscopy showed the normal anatomical structure of larynx as actual laryngoscopy. The location and extension of the lesions of larynx showed in CT virtual endoscopy agreed with that of actual laryngoscopy. In addition, CT virtual laryngoscopy revealed the structure of subglottic region and distal portion of strictured airway from feet to head, which were not available in actual laryngoscopy.

CONCLUSION

CT virtual laryngoscopy is a good complemental method of fiber optic laryngoscopy.