Last updated: 02/17/2009

The initial physical examination for a pharyngectomy usually includes examination of the neck, mouth, pharynx, and larynx. A neurologic examination is sometimes also performed. Laryngoscopy is the examination of choice, performed with a long-handled...

mirror, or with a lighted tube called a laryngoscope. A local anesthetic might be used to ease discomfort. A MRI of the oral cavity and neck may also be performed.

If the physician suspects throat cancer, a biopsy will be performed—this involves removing tissue for examination in the laboratory under a microscope. Throat cancer can only be confirmed through a biopsy or using fine needle aspiration (FNA). The physician also may use an imaging test called a computed tomography (CT) scan. This is a special type of x ray that provides images of the body from different angles, allowing a cross-sectional view. A CT-scan can help to find the location of a tumor, to judge whether or not a tumor can be removed surgically, and to determine the cancer's stage of development.

Before surgery, the patient is also examined for nutritional assessment and supplementation, and careful staging of cancer, while surgical airway management is planned with the anesthesiologist such that a common agreement is reached with the surgeon concerning the timing of tracheotomy and intubation. The anesthesiologist may elect to use an orotracheal (through the mouth and trachea) tube with anesthetic, which can be removed if a subsequent tracheotomy is planned.