Introduction:
Every individual experiences ear, nose, and throat infection during their lifetime. These are common infections that occur due to an allergy to dust, or any foreign particles that may irritate the nose and throat. Sometimes, the ear wax may get infected which could trigger the pain. Most of these infections are treatable with antibiotics if diagnosed at an earlier stage. There are various diagnostic methods to identify diseases of the ear, nose, and throat. One such procedure is the use of rhinoscopy. It is a procedure that helps to view the anterior and posterior nasal and their associated conditions. It uses a rhinoscope, which is similar to an endoscope that is a flexible tube and has a fitted camera that helps view the internal structures through a monitor. Rhinoscopy is an easy, simple, outpatient procedure that is performed by doctors. This article explains in detail the types of rhinoscopy, their uses, and their complications. A proper understanding can help to undergo the procedure at ease without fear.
What Is Rhinoscopy?
Rhinoscopy is a nasal procedure used to diagnose the anterior and posterior nasal cavities. It is also called fiber optic rhino laryngoscopy. It is almost similar to endoscopy. It views the nose and throat and gives a clear vision of any abnormalities to aid the doctor in performing the necessary treatment.
What Is the Purpose of Rhinoscopy?
It is a simple outpatient procedure that can be performed on patients with ear, nose, and throat problems. It helps to identify any malformations or abnormalities at an earlier stage. This helps the doctor to treat the symptoms and the conditions accordingly, thereby helping the patient to lead a healthy life. Late diagnosis may increase consequences, therefore it is important to get treated at the earliest possible.
What Is Anterior Rhinoscopy?
Most commonly anterior rhinoscopy is performed as a part of a physical examination, using a specific instrument called a nasal speculum. The doctors examine by wearing a headlight and focusing the light on the nose. The speculum is placed in the nostril, which helps to get a better view by widening the nostril. The procedure takes less than a minute to perform. It is used to examine and evaluate the nasal mucosa, position of the nasal septum, presence of any overhanging growth, nasal discharge, and nasal masses. This can be performed with or without a nasal decongestant.
What Is Posterior Rhinoscopy?
A posterior rhinoscopy is a test done to examine the post-nasal structures. The following structures can be viewed in the posterior rhinoscopy:
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Posterior end of the nasal septum.
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Posterior end of the turbinate.
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Fossa of rosenmuller.
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Eustachian tube opening.
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The upper surface of the soft palate.
The procedure can be performed by using a mirror or an endoscope.
How Is Posterior Rhinoscopy Performed Using a Mirror?
In order to perform a posterior rhinoscopy the doctor uses a specific mirror called the St. Claire post-nasal mirror. It is just an outpatient procedure that takes less than a minute to perform and is pretty simple. The procedure is performed by warming the mirror and inserting it into the oral cavity. The post-nasal reflection falls on the mirror which enables the doctor to thoroughly examine for any abnormalities.
How Is Posterior Rhinoscopy Performed Using an Endoscope?
It is a diagnostic procedure to examine the internal structures of the nose and throat. It detects abnormalities in the nasopharyngeal area. An endoscope is a medical instrument that is used in various diagnostic procedures, which is a thin flexible tube with a camera. In rhinoscopy, it evaluates the nose and throat simultaneously. However, a rigid endoscope can only be used to evaluate the nose at a time. The endoscope has a camera and a light source, which is connected to the monitor, to view magnified video and images of the internal structures. These videos can also be recorded for future reference. This procedure is usually performed by an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) surgeon.
Some of the endoscopes additionally are equipped with suction apparatuses and forceps that help clear the nose and sinus, and sometimes for performing a biopsy. It is an outpatient procedure that takes a few minutes. The procedure is performed under the influence of local anesthesia.
Is Rhinoscopy Painful?
During the procedure, the patient is prone to experience some form of irritation or discomfort. But during the procedure, the patient barely experiences any pain, because a topical or local anesthetic is sprayed or injected before performing the procedure. Anesthetic agents help to numb the surrounding tissue which prevents the patient from experiencing discomfort.
What Is the Use of Nasopharyngoscopy in Rhinoscopy?
The procedure helps the ENT surgeon to thoroughly evaluate the nose, sinus, and throat. It helps with the diagnosis of the following condition.
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Nasal tumors.
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Epistaxis (bleeding from the nose).
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Dysphonia (difficulty in swallowing).
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Progress after nasal surgery.
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Foreign body in the nose or throat.
Are There Any Risks Associated With Rhinoscopy?
There are barely little risks with rhinoscopy. A few risks may occur in patients with heart disease and bleeding disorders. It is better to take a thorough medical and drug history before performing the procedure. Rhinoscopy can be very useful in patients with frequent sinus problems as it helps to identify the sinus and clear the blockage.
What Are the Contraindications of Rhinoscopy?
Rhinoscopy is contraindicated in patients with primary and secondary hemostatic defects. Hemostatic defects refer to bleeding and clotting disorders. Also, individuals with heart disease should consult their physician before undergoing a rhinoscopy. It is safer to carry the list of drugs and previous health records before visiting the doctor. It helps them understand if there had been any drug allergies before prescribing medications and also to prevent drug interactions.
Conclusion:
Rhinoscopy is a procedure that is performed with the help of a rhinoscope that helps view the internal structure of the ear, nose, and throat. It is a simple, easy, non-invasive, outpatient procedure. It helps identify conditions like nasal tumors, nasal polyps, nasal obstruction, and sinus problems. It also helps clear any blockages and helps drain nasal discharge. Timely diagnosis and treatment improve the quality of prognosis.
