Endoscopic Examination

An endoscopic examination provides a detailed view of the respiratory tract, sinuses, and vocal cords, aiding in detecting and monitoring various ENT (ear, nose, and throat) conditions. At Dr Prlja Medical Clinic in Belgrade, this examination is conducted quickly and painlessly, providing accurate information crucial for timely treatment and preserving your health. Schedule your appointment today!

What is an endoscopic examination?

An endoscopic examination is a diagnostic method that allows doctors to thoroughly inspect the internal structures of the respiratory tract, sinuses, and vocal cords using a thin, flexible or rigid camera. This procedure is used to detect inflammation, polyps, tumors, and other changes that can affect breathing, voice, or overall health. It is quick, minimally invasive, and performed on an outpatient basis, requiring no recovery period.

Types of endoscopic examinations

In ENT diagnostics, several types of endoscopic examinations are used, depending on the symptoms and the area being evaluated. Each method provides a detailed view of the internal structures, aiding in accurate diagnosis and determining the appropriate treatment. Types of endoscopic examinations:

• Nose and Sinuses (Endoscopic Rhinoscopy)
• Throat and Larynx (Pharyngoscopy and Laryngoscopy)
• Vocal Cords (Vocal Cord Stroboscopy)
• Ear Canal and Eardrum (Endoscopic Otoscopy)

Nose and sinuses (Endoscopic Rhinoscopy)

Endoscopic rhinoscopy provides a detailed examination of the inside of the nose and sinuses. This procedure is used to diagnose chronic nasal congestion, allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, polyps, and a deviated nasal septum. It allows the doctor to clearly assess the mucous membranes, sinus openings, and any possible obstructions in the airway. When issues are detected, appropriate sinus treatment can be initiated, including medication therapy, nasal irrigation, or surgical procedures for more severe cases. The cost of an endoscopic nasal examination depends on several factors, such as the type of examination, the equipment used, and the doctor’s expertise.

Throat and larynx (Pharyngoscopy and Laryngoscopy)

An endoscopic examination of the throat (pharyngoscopy and laryngoscopy) enables a precise diagnosis of the pharynx and larynx. It’s used to detect inflammation, tumors, swallowing difficulties, and prolonged hoarseness. The procedure is quick and painless, allowing the doctor to immediately identify potential issues and make an accurate diagnosis. If voice problems are discovered, additional methods such as vocal cord augmentation or specialized treatments may be necessary.

Vocal cords (Vocal Cord Stroboscopy)

Vocal cord stroboscopy is a specialized examination that allows doctors to assess vocal cord mobility and voice quality. It’s particularly useful for individuals experiencing hoarseness, voice loss, or professional voice challenges, such as singers, teachers, or announcers. In cases of serious vocal cord abnormalities, surgery may be needed to enhance speech function.

Ear canal and eardrum (Endoscopic Otoscopy)

Endoscopic otoscopy provides a detailed view of the external ear canal and the eardrum. This examination aids in diagnosing infections, eardrum perforations, hearing loss, and the presence of cerumen (earwax). Additionally, it can be useful for patients who have snoring issues, as it enables the detection of potential anatomical obstructions in the airways. Thanks to the camera’s high resolution, the doctor can accurately assess the condition of the ear and recommend appropriate treatment.

How is the endoscopic examination performed?

An endoscopic examination in ENT diagnostics is a quick and painless procedure performed in the office without the need for special preparation.

The doctor uses a thin, flexible or rigid endoscope with a camera at the tip, which allows for a detailed examination of the internal structures of the nose, sinuses, throat, larynx, vocal cords, or ear canal. The examination takes only a few minutes, and during the procedure, the patient can breathe normally and communicate with the doctor.

If necessary, a local anesthetic spray can be applied before the examination to reduce discomfort. The endoscope’s camera transmits the magnified image onto a screen.

When is it necessary to perform an endoscopic examination?

An endoscopic examination is necessary for persistent symptoms that make breathing, speaking, or swallowing difficult. It allows for precise diagnosis and timely treatment of various ENT issues. These are situations in which an endoscopic examination is required:

• Nasal breathing difficulties – Persistent nasal congestion and difficulty breathing may indicate chronic rhinitis, a deviated septum, or nasal polyps.
• Sinus infections and polyps – Frequent sinus infections, prolonged nasal discharge, and facial pain may point to inflammatory processes or polyps.
• Hoarseness and voice issues – If hoarseness lasts longer than two weeks, examining the vocal cords is necessary. An endoscopic analysis can reveal nodules, polyps, and other changes.
• Suspected vocal cord paresis or paralysis – Weakness in the voice, difficulty speaking or breathing may indicate damage to the vocal cords.
• A feeling of a lump in the throat or difficulty swallowing – If you experience discomfort when swallowing, possible causes may be reflux, infections, or changes to the mucous membrane.
• Chronic ear inflammations and eardrum problems – Frequent infections, hearing loss, or eardrum perforation require a detailed examination.
• Preoperative evaluation – Endoscopic diagnostics are essential before surgeries on the nose, sinuses, vocal cords, and ear. They enable precise procedure planning and optimal treatment outcomes.

Is any preparation needed for the examination?

No special preparation is required for an endoscopic examination. The procedure is performed quickly and easily on an outpatient basis. However, in certain situations, the doctor may provide a few recommendations before the examination:

• Avoiding food and drink – If the examination involves the throat, larynx, or vocal cords, it may be advisable not to eat or drink for at least one hour before the examination so that the mucous membranes are clear and the procedure more accurate.
• Refraining from using nasal sprays or drops – If you use decongestant drops or sprays, you should avoid them before the examination, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
• Preparation for patients with an enhanced gag reflex – For individuals with a pronounced gag reflex, a local anesthetic spray can be used to make the examination more comfortable.

Possible risks and contraindications

An endoscopic examination at one of the best ENT clinics in Belgrade, Dr Prlja Medical, is a safe and minimally invasive procedure, but in rare cases, mild discomfort may occur, such as nasal or throat irritation, a brief burning sensation, or slight bleeding, particularly in sensitive patients or those prone to capillary rupture. A local anesthetic spray can cause short-term numbness or a scratchy feeling in the throat, but these effects quickly subside.

Contraindications to the examination are rare, but it may be avoided in patients with severe blood clotting disorders, a strong gag reflex, or active infections that could make performing the procedure more difficult. If you have any specific health issues, it’s important to inform the doctor before the examination to ensure maximum safety and comfort for the patient.

Breathe freely and speak effortlessly with our help.

An endoscopic examination is a quick, painless, and highly precise way to discover the cause of your symptoms and receive appropriate treatment. Instead of enduring breathing problems, chronic infections, or hoarseness, give yourself the opportunity for a clear diagnosis and an effective solution. At the Dr Prlja Medical Clinic in Belgrade, we use modern equipment and expert approaches to help you improve your quality of life. Quick and precise diagnosis for better health. Schedule your appointment today!