Endonasal endoscopy and posterior epistaxis

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques

Background:

• Epistaxis (nosebleeds) is commonly categorized into anterior and posterior types.
• Posterior epistaxis diagnosis is challenging when bleeding points are not visible via anterior rhinoscopy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of endonasal endoscopy in diagnosing and treating posterior epistaxis.
• To assess the benefits of endonasal endoscopy compared to traditional methods.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a comprehensive range of endonasal telescopes for systematic nasal cavity examination.
• Applied diathermy under direct vision guided by endonasal endoscopy to locate and treat bleeding points.
• Treated 27 cases of posterior epistaxis using this endoscopic technique.

Main Results:

• Successfully identified and treated bleeding points in all 27 posterior epistaxis cases using endonasal endoscopy.
• The technique proved particularly useful during acute nosebleeds.
• Reduced hospital stay duration and patient discomfort associated with nasal packing.

Conclusions:

• Endonasal endoscopy is a highly effective method for diagnosing and treating posterior epistaxis.
• This minimally invasive approach reduces the need for blood transfusions in acute epistaxis cases.
• Endoscopic treatment offers significant advantages in managing severe nosebleeds.