TransNasal Esophagoscopy
Transanasal esophagoscopy (TNE) is a procedure that allows a fiberoptic endoscope to visualize the esophagus with the ability for biopsy if needed. Traditionally, esophagoscopy has required conscious sedation with intravenous anesthesia in a monitored gastroenterology suite. With the advent of recent technology, the scopes have become narrower (5.3mm) with computer chips on the far end of the esophagoscope for high quality image transmission. The TNE scope is passed through the nose (rather than the mouth) and then swallowed. The TNE scope is passed into the stomach and then slowly withdrawn to visualize the entire esophagus.
Some of the advantages of TNE vs conventional endoscopy include:
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No need for sedation (can drive yourself home, return to work same day)
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No associated nausea/vomiting from sedation
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Quicker procedure time, usually about 5-10 minutes
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Decreased cost (estimated $2,000 savings)
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Avoid small (but real) risks of sedation
In a study of 121 patients that underwent both conventional sedated GI endoscopy and TNE, 71% reported that in the future they would prefer TNE.