During a nasal endoscopy, our physicians at the NYSI have the experience, skills, and specialized instruments to perform in-office Control of Epistaxis (nosebleeds) and Cauterization. During this procedure, our physicians use their unique expertise to find the precise source of bleeding. This often prevents unnecessary instrumentation and limits the duration/amount of blood loss. Once the source of bleeding is identified, your physician will use various safe and non-invasive methods to control it. This includes direct pressure, topical decongestants, chemical cauterization, absorbable (self-dissolving) dressings, and non-absorbable packing when necessary.
Cautery is the most frequently used method to control bleeding. This involves the use of Silver Nitrate, a chemical that causes a small well-defined chemical burn to address the offending blood vessel. First, your nose will be carefully anesthetized using a low-reactive safe topical (non-injectable) spray. Once the local anesthetic takes effect, the chemical is applied using a small swab that doesn’t allow for any peripheral injury. Once completed, a topical antibiotic ointment may be applied to allow for healing.
Although our in office methods are highly successful in the vast majority of cases, certain patients may require nasal packing, operative procedures and/or long-term preventative care. Please see our epistaxis page for further information.