ENT, Respiratory and Thoracic Endoscopy

If you have chronic nosebleeds, earaches, a cough or hoarseness, your health care provider may recommend an endoscopy. These minimally invasive procedures play an important role in otolaryngology (ENT), pulmonology (respiratory medicine) and thoracic medicine (lungs and chest cavity). They help identify and treat issues affecting your ears, nose, throat, airways, lungs and chest. 

At Banner Health, we understand how much breathing clearly and hearing well impact your quality of life. Our specialists provide expert, compassionate care so you feel confident and comfortable every step of the way. 

What is ENT, respiratory and thoracic endoscopy?

An endoscopy uses a small, flexible tube with a light and camera - called an endoscope - to examine areas inside your body. The camera sends live images to a monitor, allowing your doctor to see and diagnose problems. Some endoscopes also allow tiny surgical tools to be passed through for biopsies or treatments. 

Types include: 

• ENT endoscopy – Examines the middle ear, nasal passages and sinus openings. 
• Respiratory endoscopy – Looks at the back of the throat, windpipe (trachea), voice box (larynx), bronchial tubes and smaller airways in the lungs. 
• Thoracic endoscopy – Examines the lungs, lung lining and chest cavity through small incisions below the shoulder blade or above the breastbone. 

Benefits of endoscopy

• Accurate diagnosis – High-quality images help pinpoint the cause of symptoms such as chronic cough, sinus infections, voice changes or lung problems.
• Early detection – Identifies issues like tumors, infections or airway blockages sooner, improving treatment options and outcomes.
• Minimally invasive – Smaller incisions mean faster recovery, less pain and fewer complications compared to traditional surgery.
• Patient comfort – Sedation or general anesthesia helps you relax or sleep through the procedure. 

Common endoscopy procedures

Our specialists perform a range of ENT, respiratory and thoracic endoscopies, including: 

• Bronchoscopy: Examines the airways and lungs, often used to diagnose lung infections, tumors or blockages. May include a biopsy.
• Laryngoscopy: Views the voice box, vocal cords and throat to diagnose voice, swallowing or breathing problems.
• Mediastinoscopy: Examines the mediastinum (space between the lungs) to assess lymph nodes or stage lung cancer. 
• Thoracoscopy: Looks inside the chest cavity to evaluate fluid build up (pleural effusion) or abnormal lung growths (nodules).
• Nasopharyngoscopy: Examines the nasal passages and nasopharynx to detect polyps, a deviated septum or enlarged adenoids.
• Sinus endoscopy: Evaluates sinus openings and nasal passages for sinusitis, nasal polyps or tumors. 

What to expect before, during and after

Before your procedure: 

• Your provider will give you preparation instructions, which may include not eating or drinking for a set time before your appointment. 
• Let your care team know about any medications you take or allergies you have. 

During the procedure: 

• You’ll receive sedation or anesthesia for comfort. 
• The endoscope will be guided to the target area, and your doctor will examine or treat as needed. 

After your procedure: 

• Most people go home the same day. 
• You may have mild throat discomfort or fatigue for a short time. 
• Your provider will review results and next steps. 

Are you scheduled for an ENT or respiratory endoscopy procedure? Learn what to expect before, during and after the procedure. 

Expert care at Banner Health 

Considering an endoscopy? Banner Health’s ENT, respiratory and thoracic specialists offer advanced technology, expert diagnosis and personalized treatment plans. We’ll guide you through the process, answer your questions and support you from consultation through recovery. 

Schedule your appointment today to take the next step toward better breathing, hearing and overall health.