Role of Rhinopharyngoscopy in Diagnosis of Rhinopathies

Abstract

Rhinopathies, or diseases of the sinonasal cavity, are a heterogeneous group of disorders ranging from benign entities to malignant processes. Proper evaluation and treatment of rhinopathies are dependent on accurate visualization and characterization of the disease processes. Prior methods of evaluation of the sinonasal cavity were dependent largely on anterior rhinoscopy, which unfortunately provides poor visualization of the superior, posterior, and lateral extent of the sinonasal cavity. With the advent of high-definition flexible and rigid endoscopes, rhinopharyngoscopy has proven to be a critical component in the evaluation of the sinonasal cavity. Here, we discuss rhinopharyngoscopy with emphasis on technique and evaluation of common rhinopathies and future developments.