ENT Endoscopy
Home : : ENT Treatments : : ENT Endoscopy
An ENT endoscopy is a nonsurgical procedure that allows for the examination of the middle ear, nasal passages and openings to the sinuses and/or the upper section of the gastrointestinal tract. An endoscope (a thin tube with a camera and light source attached) is inserted through the nasal passage and used to capture images of the ear, nose, and throat. This procedure allows for views of the interior of the head and neck that are not possible by normal examination. The information that doctors find from this procedure can lead to proper diagnosis and treatment.
When is a ENT Endoscopy necessary?
You may need a nasal endoscopy if you’ve had chronic problems with any of the following conditions:
- Nasal blockage and drainage
- Headaches
- Facial pain, particularly around the sinuses and above the eyes
- Chronic cases of sinusitis
- Nosebleeds
- Decreased sense of smell
What happens during the process?
The patient takes a seat and receives a nasally administered local anesthetic. A scope will be passed through the nostrils and used to examine areas of interest. The examination is usually completed within 10 to 15 minutes.
What is nasal endoscopy?
Nasal endoscopy is a procedure to look at the nasal and sinus passages. It’s done with an endoscope. 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.
Why might I need a nasal endoscopy?
You might need a nasal endoscopy if your healthcare provider needs more information about problems such as:
- Nasal congestion
- Nasal blockage
- Nasal and sinus infection (rhinosinusitis)
- Nasal polyps
- Nasal tumors
- Nosebleeds
- Loss of ability to smell
- Cerebrospinal fluid leak