An endoscope is a special fiber-optic instrument for the examination of the interior of a canal or hollow viscus.

Nasal endoscope is an instrument used to observe any signs of obstruction and detect nasal polyps hidden from routine nasal examination. The examiner uses this tool to look for pus as well as polyp formation and structural abnormalities that will cause the patient to suffer from recurrent sinusitis.

Preparation for the procedure

For the procedure, the patient is usually awake and seated upright in a chair. A local anesthetic spray or liquid may be applied to the throat to make insertion of the endoscope less uncomfortable.

Procedure

Nasal endoscopy is a quick and painless procedure. The endoscope is inserted into a nostril and is threaded through the sinus passages to the throat. Insertion of the endoscope may cause a gag reflex and some discomfort, however, no special precautions are required to prepare for nasal endoscopy.

To make viewing of these areas easier, and to record the areas being examined, a camera, monitor, or other such viewing device is connected to the endoscope. Through the eyepiece of this instrument, the physician can see the inside of your nose and nasal passages to check for swelling, polyps, thickened mucus, inflammation, blockages or other problems.

Sinus Surgery

Surgical treatment should be considered when complications of sinusitis develop or medical treatment fails. 

Today, sinus surgery can also be performed endoscopically, usually on an outpatient basis. While you are under general anesthesia, the doctor will use the same basic type of scope as he does during a diagnostic endoscopy. With the help of this scope, he can then insert surgical instruments that will treat or remove sinus obstructions.

Endoscopic surgery restores the natural drainage patterns in the nose and sinuses and external incisions.

Because the procedure causes little tissue damage, there is minimal pain and swelling and no visible scarring. You will be back to your normal activities and feeling better in no time.