Nasopharyngeal cancer treatment with endoscopic tumor removal

Doctors can use a minimally invasive approach for small tumors confined to the nasopharynx. As a rule, otolaryngologists can remove such neoplasms through the nasal cavity using an endoscope. It is called an endoscopic nasopharyngectomy. General anesthesia is preferred to comfort the patient and the surgeon during endoscopic nasal surgery. After anesthesia, ENT surgeons insert a flexible fiber-optic endoscope with a mini camera and long thin surgical instruments into the nasal cavity through the nostrils. The camera transmits images to a monitor and allows doctors to examine the tumor and important nearby blood vessels and nerves at the base of the skull. Then, the doctor isolates the tumor and removes it with micro-tools while coagulating the vessels. The duration of the operation will depend on the size and location of cancer, as well as on how complex the surgery is. As a rule, it takes 1-2,5 hours to complete. After the intervention, the patient is transferred to a day hospital ward. You will stay under medical supervision for several hours. The operation involves minimal risks and does not require long rehabilitation. Therefore, patients can return to everyday life in 4-7 days.