Name of the Procedure:

Biopsy, Intranasal
(Also known as nasal biopsy, intranasal tissue sampling)

Summary:

A biopsy, intranasal is a medical procedure where a small sample of tissue is taken from inside the nasal passages. This sample is then analyzed in a laboratory to diagnose various conditions affecting the nasal cavity.

Purpose:

Medical Condition: Used to diagnose conditions such as nasal tumors, chronic infections, or inflammatory diseases.
Goals: To obtain a precise diagnosis by examining nasal tissue under a microscope, which helps guide appropriate treatment options.

Indications:

• Unexplained nasal obstruction or congestion
• Persistent nasal bleeding
• Chronic nasal infections not responding to treatment
• Suspicion of nasal tumors or cancer
• Biopsy required for confirmation of diagnosis from imaging studies

Preparation:

• Patients may need to fast for a few hours before the procedure.
• Certain medications, especially blood thinners, may need to be adjusted.
• Pre-procedure tests may include blood work and imaging studies such as CT or MRI scans.

Procedure Description:

1. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is applied to numb the nasal area.
2. Positioning: The patient is usually asked to sit or lie down.
3. Insertion: A small endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a camera) is inserted into the nasal passage for visualization.
4. Sampling: Using biopsy forceps passed through the endoscope, a small tissue sample is taken from the area of interest.
5. Completion: The endoscope is removed, and bleeding (if any) is controlled using nasal packing or local cautery.

Tools: Endoscope, biopsy forceps, local anesthetics.

Duration:

Typically takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Setting:

Usually performed in an outpatient clinic or a hospital's ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) department.

Personnel:

• ENT Specialist or Otolaryngologist
• Nurse or medical assistant
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist (if sedation is used)

Risks and Complications:

• Bleeding from the biopsy site
• Infection
• Pain or discomfort in the nasal area
• Rare risk of nasal septum perforation

Benefits:

• Accurate diagnosis of nasal conditions.
• Helps in formulating an effective treatment plan.
• Early detection of serious conditions like cancer.

Recovery:

• Mild swelling or discomfort is expected; can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
• Avoid strenuous activities for a few days.
• Follow-up visit to review biopsy results and check healing.
• Complete recovery usually within a few days to a week.

Alternatives:

• Imaging Studies: Such as CT or MRI scans; non-invasive but less definitive.
• Nasal Endoscopy: Visual examination without taking a tissue sample; less diagnostic certainty.
• Watchful Waiting: Monitoring symptoms over time; delays diagnosis and treatment.

Patient Experience:

• Minor discomfort during the procedure.
• Possible mild bleeding or nasal congestion immediately afterward.
• Local anesthesia ensures minimal pain, but patients may feel pressure or slight discomfort during tissue sampling.
• Post-procedure: typical recovery involves mild discomfort that can be managed with pain relief measures.