A nasal endoscope is a thin, tube-like instrument with a camera at the end. ENT doctors and surgeons use it to examine and diagnose nasal and sinus issues. The camera allows the doctor to see inside the nose and sinuses on a video monitor, which helps them to identify and diagnose any problems.
Dr. Abd El Rahman Magdy Fawzy, ENT Consultant and holder of a PhD in Sinus and Skull Base Endoscopy, offers comprehensive care for diagnostic and therapeutic nasal endoscopy procedures at his center.
Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)
Nasal endoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that is used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. It involves the use of a thin, tube-like instrument with a camera at the end to visualize the inside of the nose and sinuses. The camera transmits images to a video monitor, allowing the doctor to see the nasal passages and sinuses in detail.
On the therapeutic side, nasal endoscopy helps in removing damaged nasal tissues and cartilage, which gradually reduces the symptoms of sinus congestion. In general, endoscopic sinus surgery is performed to improve both inhalation and exhalation through various uses, which we will discuss in the next paragraph.
What are the uses of nasal and sinus endoscopy?
Nasal endoscopy can be used for a variety of purposes, including:
Diagnosis
Nasal endoscopy can be used to diagnose a variety of conditions, including:
- Nasal congestion
- Nasal pain
- Excessive nasal discharge
- Nasal obstruction
- Nasal polyps
- Sinusitis
- Loss of smell
- Cerebrospinal fluid leak
- Nasal tumors
Treatment
Nasal endoscopy can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including:
- Removal of nasal polyps.
- Removal of small tumors.
- Removal of mucus buildup that contributes to sinusitis.
Cleaning
Nasal endoscopy can be used to clean the nose and sinuses in cases of:
- Removal of any foreign objects stuck in the nasal cavity.
- Removal of surgical debris that is causing nasal obstruction, such as mucus.
- Cleaning of mucopurulent secretions.
Treatment evaluation
Nasal endoscopy can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment for a variety of conditions, including:
- Evaluating the inflammatory state of the sinuses after medical treatment
- Evaluating the condition of the sinuses and their complications after surgery
- Evaluating cases that have undergone surgery to remove nasal polyps or purulent discharge
Preoperative Procedures for Nasal and sinus Endoscopy
Before undergoing nasal endoscopy, there are some procedures that the doctor recommends. These procedures may vary depending on the severity of the case and the purpose of the procedure. They include:
- Performing multiple tests, such as a complete blood count and blood clotting test.
- An electrocardiogram is used to monitor heart activity.
- A chest X-ray is performed to assess the condition of the lungs.
- Prescribing antibiotics: depending on the severity of the case.
- Stop taking blood thinners and pain relievers at least two weeks before the procedure.
- Quitting smoking: for three weeks, because nicotine impairs wound healing.
Steps of Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
The doctor performs endoscopic sinus surgery in a series of steps, which are explained below:
- The patient is anesthetized before the procedure begins.
- The doctor makes a small incision in the nose to insert the endoscope.
- The doctor gradually inserts the endoscope to diagnose or treat the patient, depending on the purpose of the procedure.
- The doctor then gently removes the endoscope to avoid damaging the nasal tissues and cartilage.
Recovery after nasal and sinus Endoscopic Surgery
After undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery, you may experience some discomfort, which varies from patient to patient. This may include bloody discharge, nasal congestion, or headache. Do not worry; these symptoms are temporary and will gradually disappear over time.
To recover faster, the doctor recommends following some guidelines, the most important of which are:
- Take the pain-relieving medication prescribed by your doctor.
- Avoid activities that require a lot of effort.
- Avoid sleeping directly on your nose.
- Avoid touching your nose.
Contact us
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above or if you have any concerns about your nose or sinuses, please contact us to schedule an appointment with Dr. Abd El Rahman Magdy Fawzy, ENT consultant with PhD in Sinus and Skull Base Endoscopy. We offer comprehensive care for diagnostic and therapeutic nasal endoscopy procedures. Our goal is to provide you with comprehensive healthcare, including diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Just call us now.
