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| Figure 1: the use of transnasal esophagoscopy (TNE). The ultra thin endoscope is often easily passed through the nose without the use of sedation. |
Transnasal Esophagoscopy (TNE) represents the latest advancement in diagnosis of esophageal-related diseases. With the miniaturization of high resolution cameras, it is now possible to create ultra thin endoscopes that are capable of reaching the stomach. Because of the small size of these endoscopes, they can now be passed through the nose with ease. This means that patients no longer need sedation for routine esophagoscopy.
In the past, when a patient complained of difficulty swallowing or had complaints of chronic heartburn, they would be sent for either a barium swallow study or a traditional flexible esophagoscopy. Barium swallow studies are often unreliable. These studies can miss changes in the lining of the esophagus, which may represent small cancers or precancerous lesions. Traditional esophagoscopy requires the use of sedation, which carries certain risks. In addition, patients often have to spend hours preparing and recovering from the procedure. This necessitates taking time off of work or school (for both the patient and often another family member).
With the advent of TNE, patients can have the esophagoscopy right in the office setting without any additional medication. The entire procedure takes less than 10 minutes, and the patient can return to work or school the same day. This saves a lot of time and energy.
At the NYU Voice Center, we utilize the latest TNE technology. The staff has extensive experience with this procedure, and in fact, teaches this technique to other physicians.
