ENT endoscopy

What is ENT endoscopy?

It is a diagnostic examination aimed at examining inner surfaces of ENT organs – ear canal, oral cavity, oropharynx, as well as the nasal cavity. The exam is performed using a flexible endoscope (a narrow tube equipped with a camera). This is the most informative method of diagnosis, which makes it possible to examine inner surfaces of ENT organs from different angles.

ENT endoscopy advantages:

  • Noninvasiveness. The procedure does not require direct intervention into a patient's body. The organs are examined using an endoscope, which is inserted into the natural openings of the body.
  • Safety. LED lights are used during the procedure, which is safe for the patient.
  • Accuracy. The use of microscopic equipment helps to get a high-resolution color image taken from different angles.
  • Informativity. The exam helps to detect abnormalities, which cannot be detected during a regular exam.
  • Simplicity. Diagnosis is possible at any stage of the treatment in order to monitor and correct it.

ENT endoscopy at Kivach clinic

The specialists of the clinic use a German endoscopy module produced by ATMOS MedizinTechnik company.

ENT endoscopy is ordered:

  • to specify the diagnosis and determine the stage of the disease.
  • before having an ENT surgery and during the postoperative period.

The exam helps to identify the smallest abnormalities of the mucous lining:

  • tumor processes of various origin;
  • adenoid tissue growth;
  • pathological processes in maxillary sinuses;
  • polyposis.

ENT endoscopy also helps to detect nasopharynx abnormalities and monitor the process and results of treatment.

The procedure has almost no age restrictions. It is recommended for patients over three years of age. Special endoscopes are used for children.

Indications

  • breathing difficulty
  • decreased sense of smell
  • nasal discharge
  • nasal bleeding
  • recurring headaches
  • tinnitus
  • speech delay in children
  • snoring

Results

  • making an accurate diagnosis and drafting a treatment strategy

About the procedure

Duration: 30 minutes.
Anesthesia: local in the form of a lidocaine-based spray of gel.

What to expect during the procedure?

The procedure is performed by an otolaryngologist.

The doctor applies local anesthesia before the procedure. As a rule, a spay is used to numb the examined area, and it is applied in the examined cavity. A special gel is applied onto the tip of the endoscope.

During the procedure, the endoscope is inserted into a body cavity (ear, nose, throat). A tiny camera built into the tip of the endoscope transmits the image into a computer screen, which helps the doctor to assess the condition of an organ and make a diagnosis.

During the consultation, the clinic's otolaryngologist will listen to your wishes, perform an examination, and order additional tests and offer appropriate treatment if needed.

Contraindications

  • Allergic reaction to lidocaine and other anesthetic agents.
  • Predisposition to nasal bleeding (in this case a doctor will use a special endoscope).
  • Hypersensitivity of the mucous lining.
  • Bleeding disorder.
  • Some neurotic disorders.

Question-answer

  1. Is the procedure safe?
  2. The procedure is absolutely safe.

  3. Is the procedure painful?
  4. The procedure is performed with the use of topical anesthesia, with the anesthetic being applied to the examined body cavities and the tip of the endoscope. The patient might feel insignificant pressure when the endoscopic tube is inserted. Special, thinner endoscopes are used for children.

  5. How to prepare for the procedure?
  6. The main preparation is done by the otolaryngologist.

  7. Are complications possible?
  8. There are no complications. Right after the procedure there might be:

    • minor discomfort in the nasopharynx;
    • difficulty swallowing, a swollen pharynx;
    • minor nausea, hoarseness;
    • minor nasal bleeding;
    • if a tissue sample is taken during the procedure, coughing with blоod clots is possible.

    These manifestations do not pose a danger to the patient and disappear after a short period of time.

  9. What ensures that the procedure is successful?
    • Qualified doctors with extensive practical experience.
    • The use of certified medications and advanced equipment.
    • Compliance with the standards of medical care.