Ear, Nose & Throat Tests
Patients experiencing symptoms in the mouth or throat may be advised to undergo special investigations.
Enquire about Ear, Nose & Throat TestsEar, Nose and Throat tests may be recommended for patients experiencing relfux symptoms, specifically LPR symptoms, such as a sore throat, sinusitis or ear pain.
Ear Nose and Throat Tests may include:
CT Scan
CT scan is now a routine investigation. It uses X-rays and computer technology to create images of the body.
MRI Scan
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is now a routine investigation. It is a non-invasive and painless test that uses magnetic and radio waves to create clear pictures showing the inside of your heart. Unlike an X-ray, an MRI scan does not use radiation.
Laryngoscopy
This can be performed in different ways:
a) Indirect laryngoscopy:
This uses a small mirror held at the back of your throat. The examining specialist will shine a light on the mirror to view the throat area.
b) Fiberoptic laryngoscopy (nasolaryngoscopy):
This test employs a small flexible telescope. This is passed through your nose and into your throat after a local anaesthetic spray is used to numb the throat. This is the most common way that the voice box is examined. This procedure typically takes less than 1 minute.
c) Direct laryngoscopy:
This employs a tube called a laryngoscope. This procedure allows the doctor to see deeper in the throat and to remove a foreign object or sample tissue for a biopsy. It is performed under general anaesthetic.
Sinus X-ray
A sinus X-ray is an imaging test that uses X-rays to look at your sinuses. The sinuses are air-filled pockets (cavities) near your nasal passage.