The endoscope is actually a thin, flexible tube equipped with a small camera with a light source. During a nasal endoscopy, the endoscope passes through the nasal canals and sinuses. In this way, images of this area are seen, which helps to diagnose and treat the complications of this area. It is also possible to insert small instruments for tissue sampling through the endoscope. This method can also be used to remove an external object from a child's nose.
When is nasal endoscopy recommended?
As mentioned, nasal endoscopy can be used for both diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, nasal endoscopy surgery is recommended to help diagnose and treat the following:
- Nasal congestion
- Nasal obstruction
- Infections of the nose and sinuses
- Nasal polyps
- Nasal tumors
- Bleeding from the nose
- Decreased sense of smell
- Examination of cerebrospinal fluid
This operation can be effective in treatment by showing the exact details such as the location of bleeding or inflammation of the sinus tissues. Nasal endoscopy is also used to examine the nature of the mass of cells which may be cancerous.
Preoperative procedures for nasal endoscopic surgery
Prior to nasal endoscopy, some medications should be stopped for a period of time as recommended by your physician. This operation does not require fasting before surgery. As with most surgeries, the tests required and requested by the doctor must be performed before the operation. The use of nasal spray before nasal endoscopy is recommended to reduce the amount of inflammation in the nasal canals, so that the endoscope can move easily in the sinuses and nasal cavities. For the convenience of the patient during this operation, before inserting the endoscope, the area is anesthetized and then the endoscope is inserted through the nose. In some cases, the patient may experience discomfort by performing this step and may need more anesthesia. Nasal endoscopy is performed through both nostrils.