Health Encyclopedia
Upper airway biopsy
Definition
Upper airway biopsy is surgery in which a small piece of tissue is removed from the upper airway (nose, mouth, throat) for examination.
Alternative Names
Biopsy - upper airwayHow the Test is Performed
The health care provider will spray a numbing agent in your mouth and throat. A metal tube is inserted to hold the tongue out of the way.
Another numbing agent is injected through the tube down the back of the throat. This may cause coughing at first. When the area feels thick or swollen, it is numb.
The abnormal area is viewed, and a small piece of tissue is removed. It is sent to the laboratory for examination.
How to Prepare for the Test
Do not eat for 6 - 12 hours before the test. You must sign an informed consent form.
How the Test Will Feel
As the area is being numbed, there may be a feeling of fluid running down the back of the throat. You may feel the need to cough or gag. There may be feelings of pressure or mild tugging.
When the numbness wears off, your throat may feel scratchy for several days. After the test, the cough reflex will return in 1 - 2 hours. Then you may eat and drink normally.
Why the Test is Performed
This test may be may be done when your doctor thinks there may be a problem or defect. It may also be done as part of a bronchoscopy when defects are in the upper airway as well as the lung tissue.
Normal Results
There are normal upper airway tissues, with no abnormal growths.
What Abnormal Results Mean
Disorders or conditions that may be discovered include:
- Granulomas (may be caused by tuberculosis)
- Granulomatous inflammation (may be caused by tuberculosis)
- Necrotizing vasculitis
- Cancer
Risks
- Sore throat
- Breathing difficulties
- Bleeding (some bleeding is common, excessive bleeding is not)
There is a risk of choking if water or food is swallowed before the numbness wears off.
Reviewed By: James L. Demetroulakos, M.D., F.A.C.S., Department of Otolaryngology, North Shore Medical Center, Salem, MA. Clinical Instructor in Otology and Laryngology, Harvard Medical School. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
