Nasal Endoscopy

This is an examination of the nasal air passages and the space behind the nose and the throat, using a small telescope. It can be performed on patients of all ages.

The procedure is often carried out to diagnose the following problems:

• Chronic shortness of breath
• Difficulty or inability to swallow
• Hoarseness
• A longstanding history of smoking
• Suspected vocal fold lesions
• Tumour surveillance

The doctor might consider the use of a local anaesthetic if desirable. The endoscope is then placed into your nose and passed into the back of the throat. The anaesthetic spray wears off within two hours.

Rigid nasal endoscopy is performed on adults and on older children who are able to stay still during the examination. What’s involved is a complete, detailed visualisation of the following:

• Mucus membranes
• Nasal turbinates (thin bones at the side of the nasal cavity)
• Sinus openings
• Other parts of the nasal area

The procedure is often carried out to diagnose the following problems:

• A change to the sense of smell
• Obstruction of the nasal airway
• Pain in the face or nasal area
• Recurrent nosebleeds
• Suspected  sinusitis

During your appointment with your consultant, you will be given advice on the most appropriate procedure for your situation. You will then be given an appointment at a time convenient for you for the procedure to take place, under the same consultant.