nasopharyngoscope

Nasopharyngoscope is an endoscopic instrument used to visualize the nasopharynx, the upper part of the throat behind the nasal cavity. It can be rigid or flexible, and modern devices often provide video imaging that displays the view on a monitor.

Design and variants: A nasopharyngoscope is a slender tube with an integrated light source and an optic system. Rigid versions may be angled to improve viewing of the nasopharynx, while flexible ones can be navigated through the nasal passages. Some devices rely on fiber optics, while newer models use digital cameras and video recording.

Use and procedure: Nasopharyngoscopy is performed by otolaryngologists or other trained clinicians. Indications include evaluation of nasal obstruction, recurrent epistaxis, chronic rhinitis or sinusitis, suspected nasopharyngeal tumors, and surveillance after head and neck cancer therapy. It may aid preoperative airway assessment and can be used to obtain tissue biopsies or cytology samples from the nasopharynx. The examination is typically done in an outpatient setting. After applying topical anesthetic and vasoconstrictor, the patient sits with the head stabilized; the scope is inserted through a nostril and advanced to visualize the nasopharynx. The procedure is usually brief and may be performed with or without light sedation.

Safety and limitations: Nasopharyngoscopy is generally safe but can cause discomfort, coughing or gagging, nasal bleeding, or transient nasal obstruction. Proper sterilization is essential to minimize infection risk. Contraindications include inability to cooperate, severe nasal obstruction preventing passage, or uncorrected bleeding tendency.