Office endoscopy for the laryngologist/bronchoesophagologist

The development of thin, high-resolution, transnasal esophagoscopes ushers in a new era of office-based endoscopy. The bronchoesophagologist can now perform comprehensive in-office esophageal examinations without the need for intravenous sedation or anesthesia. Although there is a high prevalence of reflux and swallowing disorders in otolaryngologic practice, most otolaryngologists do not incorporate esophagoscopy into their diagnostic armamentarium. The introduction of these new endoscopes returns the field of esophagoscopy to the otolaryngologist. In my practice, transnasal esophagoscopy has replaced radiographic imaging of the esophagus in patients with reflux, globus, and dysphagia.