@Mark: Direct Laryngoscopy is used by doctors to get a look at the back of your throat, your voice box (larynx), and vocal cord. The procedure usually involves flexible fiber-optic laryngoscope put into your mouth while you sit straight up sticking out your tongue. The doctor will spray local anesthetic into your throat to help with the gaggy feeling.

While viewing, they can perform biopsies of suspicious masses. I do not have any details about the biopsy part so waiting for other members to fill in.