[Application of modified Weerda laryngoscopes in the ear, nose, and throat practice].

Microscope-assisted direct endoscopy of the airways and the upper gastrointestinal tract in general anesthesia is an essential diagnostic and therapeutic method of otorhinolaryngology. The quality of surgical exploration is a key for the good visibility and maneuverability of microsurgical tools. Beside the most commonly used Kleinsasser laryngoscope, the distending Weerda laryngoscope is a more favorable option for the exploration of the retrocricoid region. Narrow anatomical situation, examination and manipulation of lesions involving several sub-regions of the hypopharynx or larynx may be problematic in some cases even with this endoscope. The authors present the application of modified Weerda laryngoscopes with asymmetric spatula length in addition with four cases. The retrocricoid region, the distal part of the posterior hypopharyngeal wall and the proximal part of the esophagus can be easily visualized with this device. The modifications allow the introduction of new surgical techniques by increasing the number of applied microsurgical devices and their maneuverability.