Transnasal esophagoscopy is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure used to evaluate the esophagus in patients suffering from reflux, a condition that causes a chronic cough, throat clearing and a feeling that something is stuck in the throat as a result of abnormalities within the upper esophageal sphincter. This advanced procedure allows your doctor to evaluate the cause of your condition and develop an effective treatment plan for each individual patient. It is an excellent tool to screen for cancer of the esophagus.
During the transnasal esophagoscopy procedure, the nose is first numbed with a local anesthetic before the endoscope is inserted into the nose and to the throat. Your doctor can examine the throat and voice box in real-time, including detecting any changes when swallowing. The endoscope will then be advanced into the esophagus and stomach, if necessary, for further examination.
The entire procedure takes just 5 to 10 minutes to perform. Patients will be able to drive themselves home after this exam and can return to work and other normal activities as soon as they feel comfortable, which is usually right away. Your doctor will discuss the results of this procedure with you in order to determine the ideal treatment approach for your individual condition.