Endoscopic nasopharyngectomy

Endoscopic nasopharyngectomy‏‎

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Endoscopic nasopharyngectomy procedure

Endoscopic nasopharyngectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to remove tumors or lesions located in the nasopharynx. The nasopharynx is the upper part of the throat, behind the nose and above the soft part of the roof of the mouth (soft palate). This procedure is typically performed by an otolaryngologist, also known as an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) surgeon.

Indications

Endoscopic nasopharyngectomy is commonly indicated for the treatment of benign or malignant tumors in the nasopharynx. It may also be used to remove polyps, cysts, or other abnormal growths in this area. The procedure is considered when the tumor or lesion is small and confined to the nasopharynx, allowing for complete removal through an endoscopic approach.

Procedure

During an endoscopic nasopharyngectomy, the patient is placed under general anesthesia to ensure comfort and immobility throughout the procedure. The surgeon inserts an endoscope, a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera attached, through the nostril and into the nasopharynx. This provides a clear view of the area on a monitor, allowing the surgeon to navigate and perform the necessary excision.

Using specialized instruments inserted through additional small incisions, the surgeon carefully removes the tumor or lesion from the nasopharynx. The goal is to achieve complete resection while preserving surrounding healthy tissue and structures. Once the excision is complete, any bleeding is controlled, and the incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures.

Recovery

After endoscopic nasopharyngectomy, patients may experience mild discomfort, nasal congestion, or minor bleeding for a few days. Pain medication and nasal decongestants may be prescribed to manage these symptoms. Patients are typically advised to avoid strenuous activities and to follow a soft diet during the initial recovery period.

Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing and ensure that there are no signs of recurrence. Depending on the nature of the tumor or lesion removed, additional treatments such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy may be recommended to prevent regrowth or metastasis.