Nasal Endoscopy

What is nasal endoscopy?

Nasal endoscopy is an examination procedure that allows an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist to view the nasal passages, paranasal sinuses as well as the pharynx (throat) under magnification.

Either a flexible or rigid (non-flexible) endoscope is inserted through the nostrils after local anaesthesia has been applied to minimise discomfort in the nose.

Why do you need a nasal endoscopy?

Your ENT specialist may recommend a nasal endoscopy as a diagnostic procedure for nose-related symptoms such as :

Nasal obstruction or congestion
Nose bleeds
Nasal discharge (e.g. mucus or pus)
Sinus pressure or pain
Loss of smell

Nasal endoscopy can also be performed as part of treatments such as:

Suctioning of pus for microbial testing (viruses, bacteria, fungi)
Biopsy of polyps
Cautery to stop a nose bleed
Removing a foreign body in the nose

Nasal endoscopy is also conducted to see if a treatment for a nose or sinus problem is working, such as checking to see whether nasal polyps have shrunk.

What are the risks and complications of a nasal endoscopy?

Nasal endoscopy is a generally safe procedure, but it may have rare complications such as:

Adverse reaction to the decongestant or anaesthetic
Fainting
Nosebleed

If you have a bleeding disorder or take blood thinners, you may have a higher risk of bleeding.

Your risks may also vary according to your age and other health conditions. Your doctor will discuss with you the risks before the procedure.

How do you prepare for a nasal endoscopy?

Your doctor will give you instructions on what to do before the test. Check with your doctor if you:

Are able to eat and drink normally before the procedure
Should stop taking any medicines before the procedure, such as blood thinners

What to expect in a nasal endoscopy?

A nasal endoscopy usually lasts for a few minutes and can be performed with or without local anaesthetic.

Before the procedure

To prepare you for the procedure, your nose will be sprayed with a combination of:

A topical decongestant to reduce swelling of the nasal lining, allowing the nasal endoscope to pass
A topical anaesthetic to reduce sensation in the nose during the procedure

During the procedure

The following are some things you may experience in a typical nasal endoscopy procedure:

You may be seated upright or in a reclined position.
A topical anaesthetic and decongestant is sprayed into the nose to numb the nose.
The nasal endoscopy is performed by your doctor, who will gently introduce the nasal endoscope through the nostril, first on one side.
You may find this uncomfortable. If so let you doctor know. Additional topical anaesthesia or a narrower nasal endoscope help to reduce the discomfort
A few passes of the scope may be necessary for a thorough examination.
The process is repeated for the second side.
If needed, your doctor may obtain a tissue or mucus sample for lab testing.