Nasal Endoscopy

A nasal endoscopy is a procedure performed by an ear, nose, and throat specialist (ENT doctor or otolaryngologist) to treat or diagnose a condition of the nose or sinuses that can’t be properly assessed with a routine physical exam. It is also known as a rhinoscopy.

What is a nasal endoscopy for?

A nasal endoscopy is performed with an endoscope, a long, thin tube with a camera and a light at the end that sends its live video to a screen. It allows your doctor to visualize the inside of your nose and sinuses. Not only does it assist with making a diagnosis but it can also provide a way to treat certain problems that are uncovered.

You may be recommended a nasal endoscopy if you have problems in your nose or sinuses, such as:

• Persistent congestion or blockage
• Polyps
• Frequent sinus infections
• Facial pain or pressure suggestive of a sinus problem
• Sinus headaches
• Current or past history of frequent nosebleeds
• Loss of sense of smell
• A tumor
• A runny nose suggestive of a cerebrospinal fluid leak
• Snoring and sleep apnea

With a nasal endoscopy, your specialist can examine these abnormalities, perform minor surgical procedures such as removing polyps, suction out debris or foreign objects, or take a tissue biopsy.

What happens during a nasal endoscopy?

A nasal endoscopy can be performed under either a topical anesthetic spray or a local anesthetic injection in the doctor’s office. If you are having a surgical procedure via endoscopy at the same time, this may be organized as a day procedure in a hospital.

In addition to the numbing agent, you may also have a topical decongestant medication sprayed into your nose to reduce any swelling and allow more space for the endoscope to move. Nasal endoscopes may be rigid or flexible.

This tube is inserted into one nostril, guided through your nasal passages, and into your sinuses, while your ENT doctor watches the live feed on a screen. No incisions or cuts are involved unless you are having a nasal endoscopy to facilitate a surgical procedure, such as removing a growth inside your nose. You may repeat this process a few times on each side of your nose to get a more comprehensive view of the different areas.

Because of the anesthetic, nasal endoscopy is not considered a painful procedure, but some patients may experience mild discomfort or pressure. In some cases, your throat and mouth can also become numb, which may cause an uncomfortable feeling of being unable to swallow. The anesthesia tends to wear off within 30 minutes.

Risks of nasal endoscopy

In general, nasal endoscopy is not considered a high-risk procedure, and both flexible and rigid endoscopy are usually well tolerated with few side effects. However, the level of risk will depend on your overall health and whether the endoscopy procedure is being combined with a treatment, such as surgery. Your risks can be minimized by choosing a reputable, experienced ENT specialist.

For patients with a blood-clotting disorder or on blood-thinning medications such as aspirin, you may be at an increased risk of bleeding from the procedure. Some people may feel a bit light-headed or faint, particularly if there is a history of heart problems. Rarely, there may be a reaction to the anesthetic or decongestant. An infection in the nose or sinuses caused by the nasal endoscopy may also occur, but the risk is very low.

If surgery is being performed via nasal endoscopy, potential complications can include a severe bleed, toxic shock syndrome, or injury to the eye socket. The rate of complications for endoscopic sinus surgery is reported to be less than 3%, with bleeding the most common complication. Your ENT specialist will advise of the potential risks before proceeding with the procedure and let you know if you are at an increased risk of any of these complications and if there is anything you can do to minimize them.

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If you’re living with issues of the nose or sinuses, Berger Henry ENT will work with you to develop a treatment plan targeted toward relief of your symptoms. From diagnosis to treatment, we’re here to help you get back to living your life pain free.