Overview
A rhinoscopy is a procedure to visualize the nasal cavity. Small samples of tissues can be taken, foreign material removed, or polyps extracted. The samples are then sent for evaluation under a microscope to look for signs of damage or disease. Rhinoscopy is used to help confirm disorders of the nasal cavity and sinuses.
Why it’s done
Your veterinarian may recommend a rhinoscopy if your pet has:
- A history of nasal congestion, nasal discharge, sneezing, or abnormal swelling of the head
How to prepare for your pet’s procedure
Before your pet’s rhinoscopy, you will meet with one of our specialists to talk about the procedure and what to expect.
When you meet with our team, please bring a list of all medications that your pet is currently taking, including over the counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Before your pet’s procedure, you may be asked to discontinue giving certain medications that can increase the risk of bleeding or that might interfere with achieving a diagnosis.
This is a good time to ask questions about the procedure and make sure you understand the risks and benefits.
Preoperative diagnostics and tests
Before your pet’s rhinoscopy the following may be indicated:
- Comprehensive blood panel
- CT scan
General Instructions for the Day of Surgery
- Give your pet nothing by mouth after midnight the night before. This means that all food and water should be withheld.
- Please arrive for pet’s admission promptly at your scheduled arrival time.
- You will be asked to sign both an Anesthetic Consent Form as well as an Estimate, indicating your understanding of the procedure, risks, and associated costs.
What happens during a rhinoscopy?
Your pet will be given a general anesthetic. Special instruments, including a camera, are passed into the nostrils and through the mouth. The specialists can visualize the nasal cavity, sinuses, and oral cavity.
Risks
Complications associated with a rhinoscopy are extremely rare but can include the following:
- Excessive bleeding
After the procedure
- Following the procedure, you will be given a phone call with an update on your pet’s recovery. A scheduled discharge will be coordinated at that time.
- Please remove the bandage from your pet’s intravenous catheter site 10 to 15 minutes after arriving home.
- Many patients will not eat the night following anesthesia. If your pet has not eaten after 24 hours of returning home, please call Salt River.
- Some patients will vomit or have diarrhea following anesthesia. If the vomiting or diarrhea persists more than 24 hours, please call Salt River. In contrast, some patients may be constipated or may not have a bowel movement for up to 72 hours following anesthesia. If your pet is straining to defecate after 72 hours, please call Salt River.
- It is common to see blood tinged nasal discharge or clots for 1-2 days following a rhinoscopy procedure.
Results
The samples are submitted to specialized laboratories for evaluation.
- The final biopsy and culture results can take up to 2 weeks. Once the final results have returned and a treatment plan has been devised, our specialists will call you to discuss the findings and recommendations.
Follow up
A recheck appointment is required in 4-6 weeks.