One-stop evaluation of globus pharyngeus symptoms with transnasal esophagoscopy and swallowing function test

To evaluate the feasibility of a one-stop assessment of patients complaining of globus sensation with transnasal esophagoscopy (TNE) and functional endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES).

Prospective, nonrandomized, experimental investigation.

Tertiary referral centre.

Sixty-three consecutive patients complaining of a lump in the throat were evaluated by this combined approach.

The safety and feasibility of performing a one-stop TNE plus FEES were explored by subjective measurement of the patients' tolerance and satisfaction and comments from surgeons. The possible therapeutic effects were also assessed 2 months after the procedure.

All 63 patients completed the TNE and FEES without any complications. The average duration of the examination was 6.27 ± 2.52 (95% CI 5.63-6.91) minutes. The findings included arytenoid cyst, epiglottic cyst, vocal cord nodules, vocal cord palsy, esophageal reflux, and foveolar gland hyperplasia. Two patients (3.2%) demonstrated some degree of fluid penetration or aspiration. Nine specialists all scored highly on a visual analogue scale on the manipulation, visualization, and satisfaction of the TNE procedure (median  =  8 of 10). Patients also rated a low pain score (median  =  1 of 10) and a high satisfaction score (median  =  9 of 10).

The combined technique of TNE and FEES can be used safely as a one-stop examination tool for patients with globus pharyngeus symptoms.