Transnasal Oesophagoscopy (TNO) / Transnasal Esophagoscopy (TNE)

Transnasal Oesophagoscopy (TNO) or Transnasal Esophagoscopy (TNE) is a procedure to examine the lining of the oesophagus (the part of the digestive tract between the throat and the stomach) using a  flexible endoscope passed through the nose and throat.

This examination has traditionally been performed under general anaesthetic (rigid oesophagoscopy) or under intravenous sedation (gastroscopy). With modern videoendoscopes this procedure can now be performed using local anaesthetic only, without the need for a general anesthetic or sedation, making the procedure fast and simple. There is no prolonged recovery time.

Dr David Vokes introduced this procedure to Auckland City Hospital in 2009, and is pleased to offer TNO at ENT Associates, using an Olympus videoendoscope - the slimmest endoscope available in New Zealand for this purpose.

This examination is useful in the following situations:

  • Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
  • Globus (lump in throat)
  • Chronic Cough
  • Reflux: Gastroesophageal and Laryngopharyngeal
  • Head and Neck Cancer screening

Several procedures may also be performed using TNO:

  • Biopsy
  • Balloon dilation
  • Tracheoesophageal puncture (after Total Laryngectomy)