Nasal & Throat Endoscopy
Nasal and throat endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to examine the nasal passages, sinuses, throat, and vocal cords. It involves inserting a thin, flexible or rigid to (endoscope) with a light and camera through the nose or mouth to provide a clear, real-time view of internal structures.
Why is it Done?
- Diagnosing sinus infections, nasal blockages, or polyps
- Evaluating throat pain, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing
- Detecting vocal cord issues, or chronic cough causes
- Guiding treatment for conditions like sleep apnea or acid reflux
Nasal & Throat Endoscopy
The sinuses are a group of spaces formed by the bones of your face. They connect with your nasal cavity. This is the air-filled space behind your nose.
During the procedure, the doctor puts the endoscope into your nose. They guide it through your nasal and sinus passages. Images of the area can be seen through the endoscope. This can help diagnose and treat health conditions. In some cases, small tools may be used to take tiny samples of tissue (biopsy) or do other tasks such as tissue debridement or removal of a foreign body.
Why might I need a nasal endoscopy?
You might need a nasal endoscopy:
- Nasal congestion
- Nasal blockage
- Nasal and sinus infection (rhinosinusitis)
- Nasal polyps
- Nasal tumors
- Nosebleeds
- Decreased or loss of ability to smell
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak
The endoscopy can show certain details, such as the site of bleeding and swelling of nasal tissue. It can also be used to look at a growth that might be a benign nasal polyp or cancer. In some cases, a nasal endoscopy can be used as a treatment. For example, it may be done on a child to remove a foreign object from their nose. Doctor might also advise endoscopy to see how treatment for a nose or sinus problem is working. For example, it can show if nasal polyps have shrunk.
Rhinosinusitis (inflammation of the nasal and sinus linings) is one of the most common reasons for nasal endoscopy. You may have symptoms such as nasal blockage, yellow or greenish fluid from your nose, and facial pain. Your healthcare provider can use the endoscope to look for swelling and polyps. They may collect pus from the infected area. This can help show what is causing an infection and how best to treat it.
A doctor may use a nasal endoscope to do minimally invasive surgery. It can treat conditions such as sinus infection, nasal polyps, and nasal tumors. The surgery is done with very small tools and does not need an external cut (incision).
What are the risks of a nasal endoscopy?
Nasal endoscopy is generally safe. But in rare cases, there may be complications such as:
- Nosebleed
- Fainting
- Harmful reaction to the decongestant medicine or anesthetic
You may be at greater risk for bleeding if you have a bleeding disorder or if you take a blood thinner. Your own risks may vary according to your age and your other health conditions. Rarely, an infection may occur after a nasal endoscopy. Contact your healthcare provider if you notice any signs of infection such as fever, chills, or foul-smelling nasal discharge.
