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An endonasal endoscopy is a type of surgery in which small tumors are removed through the nose. A thin, lighted tube called an endoscope is used to illuminate the surgical site while miniature instruments are used to remove abnormal tissues. For small tumors, the instruments can be inserted through one nostril. For larger tumors, the instruments may be inserted through both nostrils.

Why is an endonasal endoscopy performed?

Endonasal endoscopies are primarily used to remove tumors from the base of the skull and the top of the spine. Because the instruments used for this type of surgery are small and flexible, they can allow a surgeon to access hard-to-reach areas that would otherwise require a more invasive operation. These procedures can be used for both adult and pediatric patients.

What are the advantages of an endonasal endoscopy?

Because endoscopic surgery uses existing openings in the body, there’s no need for a surgical incision. As a result, this type of surgery offers several advantages over a traditional approach, including:

  • A lower complication rate
  • A shorter recovery time
  • No scarring

At Moffitt Cancer Center, we perform the newest and most effective techniques, including endoscopic approaches to brain surgery. The surgeons in our Neuro-Oncology Program exclusively treat brain and skull base tumors, which means that they understand the best approaches for accessing this complex region of the body, preventing nerve damage and improving outcomes. And, because Moffitt is a high-volume cancer center, our surgeons are continually putting their skills to use. They provide every patient with a comprehensive, individualized treatment plan and a detailed explanation of each possible option.

If you’d like to request an appointment with a surgeon who specializes in endonasal endoscopy, call 1-888-663-3488 or submit a new patient registration form online. Physician referrals are not required to schedule a visit at Moffitt.