The Use of Cinefluorography for the Radiological examination of the Larynx and Hypopharynx in Cases of Suspected Carcinoma

Abstract

Contrast medium cinefluorography is performed as an adjunctive diagnostic procedure to evaluate the patient with lesions to the larynx and hypopharynx. The examination provides additional information to the radiotherapist and surgeon which may not be obtained with conventional clinical and radiographic methods. The technique involves minimum risk, and while it may be conducted by the radiologist with the use of conventional fluoroscopic equipment, the application of television image intensification fluoroscopy and cinefluorography has greatly enhanced the value of the examination. Case studies of supraglottic, glottic, subglottic, and hypopharyngeal carcinomas and of vocal cord paralysis have been discussed and the value of these studies to the radiotherapist and surgeon has been reviewed. The use of contrast material to demonstrate the patho-logical anatomy and physiology of the larynx and hypopharynx permits the radiologist (1) to describe accurately the size and position of neoplasms, (2) to determine the limits of a mass and possible extent of spread, and (3) to evaluate impaired structure and function. The examination is recommended as a routine procedure to the evaluation of the diseased larynx and hypopharynx. It provides important information to the radiotherapist and laryngologist for a sound basis for the use of existing therapeutic procedures and for the development of new techniques for the eradication of the disease.