Ultrasound of the larynx

Abstract

Practitioners of head and neck ultrasound need to familiarize themselves with the ultrasound anatomy of the larynx. The ultrasound appearance varies from individual to individual, mainly because of differing degrees of calcification. Ultrasound can show vocal fold movement in most patients. The pre-epiglottic space is easily assessed by ultrasound. The posterior larynx and hypopharynx are less well seen. Ultrasound many enhance tumour staging in some patients with laryngeal cancer but its role is unproven.