Pharyngoscopy A pharyngoscopy is a procedure that lets the doctor look inside the upper part of the patients throat with a small telescope. The purpose is to diagnose and treat problems in this region. Pharyngoscopy is used as a diagnostic tool in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. It is also used for diagnosis and evaluation of head and neck cancer. A biopsy or small tissue sample taken during pharyngoscopy, allows the doctor to make a definitive diagnosis of cancer, determine the stage of cancer, and the degree of progression. Pharyngoscopy is performed with an endoscope, a thin flexible tube with an attached light and view lens that is inserted through the mouth or nose to examine the head and neck. This procedure may be performed using an anesthetic spray or with the patient fully asleep (under general anesthesia). Patients should consult their physician for a complete explanation of the procedure and its associated risks and complications.