Rhinoscopy is a specific type of endoscopy that, as for all forms of endoscopy, involves the use of an endoscope (in this case, rhinoscope), a thin light-emitting tube equipped with a miniature camera on the tip. The rhinoscope is gently inserted into the nasal passages, allowing visualization of the internal structures of the nose. The images are displayed on a high-definition monitor with the ability to view and record both pictures and video. This procedure can be performed using either a rigid or flexible rhinoscope, depending on what is being evaluated.

Rhinoscopy is typically indicated for pets exhibiting symptoms such as:

• Nasal Discharge

• Nosebleeds (Epistaxis)

• Facial or Nasal Deformity

• Nasal Obstruction

• Pawing at the Nose or Face

It can help diagnose a variety of conditions, including:

• Tumors (Cancer)

• Nasopharyngeal Polyps

• Fungal Infections

• Foreign Objects (and Removal)

• Nasopharyngeal Stenosis

• Idiopathic Lymphoplasmacytic Rhinitis

The choice between rigid and flexible rhinoscopy, as well as antegrade and retroflexed rhinoscopy, depends on the specific requirements of the examination and what is being evaluated. We perform all of these for our patients undergoing rhinoscopy.

There are two different types of rhinoscopes used to perform a complete rhinoscopy procedure:

Rigid Rhinoscope: a short, slender, light-emitting medical-grade stainless steel “tube” with a camera embedded into the end. It is specifically designed to navigate the complex anatomy of the dog and cat nasal cavity.

Flexible Rhinoscope: a longer tube-like light-emitting instrument equipped with a camera at its tip. Its flexibility allows the full visualization of the nasopharynx (space behind the nose, above the soft palate) by insertion in the mouth then flexing 180°. A flexible rhinoscope can be used to evaluate both the nose and throat at the same time, whereas a rigid rhinoscope can only be used to evaluate the nose.

Antegrade vs Retroflexed Rhinoscopy

Antegrade Rhinoscopy: a rigid rhinoscope is inserted into each nostril and slowly and carefully maneuvered through and around the turbinates while advancing towards the back of the nasal cavity.

Retroflexed Rhinoscopy: a flexible rhinoscope is maneuvered into the nasopharynx (the area behind the nasal cavities and above the soft palate) via the mouth. The scope is then retroflexed 180° to examine the nasopharynx and the openings at the back of the nose. This method is particularly useful for examining the post-nasal structures and identifying retained foreign material and nasopharyngeal polyps.

Rhinoscopy offers several advantages over traditional surgical methods. It is a minimally invasive procedure that allows for a detailed examination of the nasal passages without the need for a surgical incision. This can result in less discomfort, a quicker recovery time and no facial scars or disfigurement. However, rhinoscopy does have the limitations that large tumors or masses may not be able to be completely removed, but only biopsied (sampled).

Rhinoscopy is an outpatient procedure, and your pet will be able to go home 1-2 hours after completion of the procedure. Your pet may be groggy or sleepy for several hours after returning home. It is not uncommon to see an intermittent (especially brought on by sneezing or exercise) slightly bloody nasal discharge for the first 12 hours after going home — this is normal and poses no concerns; restricting vigorous exercise during these first 12 hours may reduce this. Your pet may eat a small meal when they return home. By the following day, there should be no lingering effects of the procedure.