Endoscopic Sinus Exam

Overview

An endoscopic sinus exam allows the doctor to see all the structures inside the nose and the sinuses.

Before inserting the endoscope, Opens dialog, the passages inside the nose are opened up with a decongestant medicine and numbed with an anesthetic. The endoscope is guided up through a nostril and into the sinus opening, but it is not able to be inserted into the sinus itself.

The test is usually done by an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist (also called an otolaryngologist, Opens dialog or otorhinolaryngologist). It can be done in the doctor's office and takes 5 to 10 minutes.

Why It Is Done

Results

Normal

Bones and soft tissues appear normal.

Abnormal

Swelling and redness (inflammation) of the mucous membrane are present.
The nasal passages are blocked or have an abnormal size or shape.
Discolored, thick mucus is draining from a sinus opening.
Growths (nasal polyps) or foreign bodies inside the nose are seen.
The partition between the nasal cavities is crooked (deviated nasal septum) and is causing obstruction.

Information about Endoscopic Sinus Exam

Credits

Current as of: October 27, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

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All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Acute Sinusitis

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