Video Laryngoscopy as a Screening Tool for Laryngeal Changes in Chronic Smokers and Alcoholics

Abstract

Aim and Objectives The main aim of this study was to identify the evolving, early changes, premalignant and malignant lesions of larynx among smokers, and alcoholics by video laryngoscopy and to correlate the duration, frequency, and amount of smoking and alcohol with spectrum of symptoms presented and laryngeal morphology. Methods and Methodology This study was prospective study done on a total of 165 patients who attended the department of otorhinolaryngology, at a tertiary care center in South India with various ENT complaints. Patients who were above 18 years of age from both sexes and gave history of smoking and alcohol consumption were included in this study irrespective of their complaints. All these patients underwent video laryngoscopy, which helped in early diagnosing various laryngeal lesions and screening tool for development of laryngeal lesions. Following diagnosis, patients were treated accordingly with lifestyle modifications and abstinence from smoking and alcohol. The primary outcome measure is screening for laryngeal morphology and secondary outcome measures are identifiable laryngeal benign and malignant lesions among smokers and alcoholics who required appropriate treatment. Results There was a significant association between the type of lesion and age group, type of lesion and smoking, and type of lesion and alcohol when compared with nonsmokers and non-alcoholics. As the pack years and amount of alcohol consumption increased, there was a significant increase in the severity and association of lesions. Conclusion We were able to diagnose a large number of laryngeal lesions that helped in the early detection of premalignant and malignant lesions and their early treatment. The patients who were diagnosed with premalignant and malignant changes underwent microlaryngeal excision of the lesion and were in close follow-up to detect any recurrence.