Post Nasal Space (PNS) Biopsy What is a PNS biopsy? A PNS (also known as the nasopharynx) biopsy is usually a clinic procedure done to obtain small tissue samples to look for suspicious cells. This is a test to diagnose nose cancer (specifically, nasopharyngeal carcinoma).
What is the procedure like? There will be a numbing topical spray applied to both nostrils before the start of the procedure. Sometimes, the doctor may choose to use cotton pieces soaked in the numbing solution. These are then inserted and left inside the nose for a few minutes.
You will be sitting up during this procedure. A rigid nasoendoscope will be inserted into each nostril to allow the doctor to see the area of interest. The biopsy forceps is introduced into the other nostril to obtain the tissue for sampling. Either nostril will provide access to the post nasal space.
A few tissue samples will need to be collected.
The doctor will check to ensure that you do not have a nosebleed, before you can go home.
Is there any post-procedure advice? 1. You can eat and drink as per normal, but drink warm (instead of hot) fluids on the same day. 2. You may take mild pain killers (eg. Paracetamol), if needed.
• Place an ice pack on forehead or have an ice cube in mouth. You will be given a follow up appointment to receive the result of the biopsy. Appointment Hotline : (65) 6555 8828 Appointment Fax : (65) 6602 3777
3. Avoid blowing your nose forcefully. 4. Avoid sneezing. If you need to sneeze, keep your mouth open. 5. You may find some blood stains in your phlegm/ saliva over the next 2-3 days. Your nose may ooze slightly. If there is any nosebleed, you may do the following: • Avoid picking nose. • Sit upright and tilt head forward to avoid swallowing of blood, which can irritate your stomach. Spit out any blood in throat. Yishun Health is a network of medical institutions and health facilities in the north of Singapore, under the National Healthcare Group. Admiralty Medical Centre • (65) 6807 8000 • www.admiraltymedicalcentre.com.sg Khoo Teck Puat Hospital • (65) 6555 8000 • www.ktph.com.sg Yishun Community Hospital • (65) 6807 8800 • www.yishuncommunityhospital.com.sg The information is correct at the time of printing and subject to revision without further notice.
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