A method for endoscopic inspection and photography of the nasopharynx

Abstract

Examination of the postnasal space with a nasopharyngeal mirror has been described as one of the most difficult skills to acquire in clinical practice. Even experienced clinicians may find difficulty in deciding whether the postnasal space is normal, and examination: under anesthesia may therefore be necessary. Some of the difficulties which may be encountered are an exaggerated palatal reflex, an elongated soft palate, and increased muscle tension making adequate depression of the tongue difficult. Various methods of examination have been developed to overcome some of these difficulties. The nasopharyngeal speculum permits a direct examination of the postnasal space, but insertion is unpleasant and anterosuperior structures are difficult to visualize. The nasopharyngoscope is introduced through the nostrils, has a limited field of vision, and interpretation of the view obtained requires a lot of experience.