Sinus Endoscopy Health Article

Definition

An endoscope is a narrow flexible tube which contains an optical device like a telescope or magnifying lens with a bright light. In sinus endoscopy, the endoscope is inserted into the nose, and the interior of the nasal passages, sinuses, and throat is examined.

Purpose

Sinus endoscopy is used to help diagnose structural defects, infection or damage to the sinuses, or structures in the nose and throat. It may be used to view polyps and growths in the sinuses and to investigate causes of recurrent inflammation of the sinuses (sinusitis). During surgical procedures, an endoscope may be used to view the area to correct sinus-drainage problems or to remove polyps from the nose and throat.

Precautions

Insertion of the endoscope may cause a gag reflex and some discomfort, however, no special precautions are required to prepare for nasal endoscopy.

Description

This procedure can be done in a physician's office. The endoscope is inserted into a nostril and is threaded through the sinus passages to the throat. 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

Preparation

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.

Aftercare

After the endoscope is removed, the patient can return to most normal activities. If an anesthetic was used, the patient may have to wait until the numbness wears off to be able to eat or drink.

Risks

The insertion and removal of the endoscope may stimulate a gag reflex, and can cause some discomfort. The procedure may also irritate the tissues of the nose and throat, causing a nosebleed or coughing.

Normal results

Under normal conditions, no polyps, or growths are found in the sinuses. There should also be no evidence of infection, swelling, injury, or any structural defect that would prevent normal draining of the sinuses.

Abnormal results

Polyps, growths, infections, or structural defects of the nasal passages are considered abnormal.

BOOKS

"Nasal Endoscopy." In The Patient's Guide to Medical Tests, ed. Barry L. Zaret, et al. Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 1997.

ORGANIZATIONS

American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Inc. One Prince St., Alexandria VA 22314-3357.(703) 836-4444. <http://www.entnet.org>.

Ear Foundation. 1817 Patterson St., Nashville, TN 37203. (800) 545-4327. <http://www.earfoundation.org>.

OTHER

"Endoscopic Plastic Surgery." Southern California Plastic Surgery Group'Page. <http://www.face-doctor.com>.

Altha Roberts Edgren