Use of the Venner™ A.P. Advance™ video laryngoscope for biopsy examination of the base of the tongue

Biopsy specimens taken from the base of the tongue can be non-diagnostic, because of errors in sampling and tissue samples that are too small or superficial. The Venner™ A.P. Advance™ video laryngoscope (Intavent Direct, Maidenhead, UK) is an anaesthetic laryngoscope designed for use in patients with a difficult airway. We present a pilot study that compares video laryngoscope-assisted biopsy examination of the base of the tongue with the standard technique using a surgical laryngoscope. The video laryngoscope gives a wide view of the base of the tongue and the ability to use sinus biopsy forceps, which can take larger and deeper specimens.