OBJECTIVE: Laryngology is a rapidly evolving and growing field in Canada. Recent technologies and trends, including endoscopic techniques, KTP and pulsed dye lasers, injection materials, and in-office procedures, are changing the nature and depth of services offered to patients. Our objective was to understand the current state of laryngology practice in Canada. DESIGN: Survey. SETTING: Adult laryngology practices in Canada. METHODS: We identified otolaryngologists working in Canada who self-identified as having a significant laryngology practice. We then asked them to complete an anonymous survey, with questions regarding composition of practice time, endoscopic equipment, electromyography, vocal cord medialization techniques, laser technologies, and plans for the future. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Practice composition and use rates of available technology. RESULTS: Ten of 11 respondents reported that laryngology represents at least 20% of their practice (mean = 53%). All employed rigid laryngoscopy, stroboscopy, and exclusively CO2 laser. Six used distal chip endoscopes, whereas three perform transnasal esophagoscopy. CONCLUSIONS: The survey results demonstrate that laryngology practice in Canada is approaching state of the art and that most laryngologists plan to increase the breadth and scope of their practice as newer technologies become available. Limited funding and national regulations limit the adoption of some cutting-edge techniques.
OBJECTIVE: Laryngology is a rapidly evolving and growing field in Canada. Recent technologies and trends, including endoscopic techniques, KTP and pulsed dye lasers, injection materials, and in-office procedures, are changing the nature and depth of services offered to patients. Our objective was to understand the current state of laryngology practice in Canada. DESIGN: Survey. SETTING: Adult laryngology practices in Canada. METHODS: We identified otolaryngologists working in Canada who self-identified as having a significant laryngology practice. We then asked them to complete an anonymous survey, with questions regarding composition of practice time, endoscopic equipment, electromyography, vocal cord medialization techniques, laser technologies, and plans for the future. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Practice composition and use rates of available technology. RESULTS: Ten of 11 respondents reported that laryngology represents at least 20% of their practice (mean = 53%). All employed rigid laryngoscopy, stroboscopy, and exclusively CO2 laser. Six used distal chip endoscopes, whereas three perform transnasal esophagoscopy. CONCLUSIONS: The survey results demonstrate that laryngology practice in Canada is approaching state of the art and that most laryngologists plan to increase the breadth and scope of their practice as newer technologies become available. Limited funding and national regulations limit the adoption of some cutting-edge techniques.