Functional pharyngoesophagoscopy: A new technique for diagnostics and analyzing deglutition

Functional pharyngoesophagoscopy is a new technique that allows examination of the functions of larynx, pharynx, and esophagus at the office or at the bedside without medication and anesthesia. Patients suffering from hoarseness, cough, globus sensation, chronic sinusitis, and dysphagia may undergo this technique. Functional pharyngoesophagoscopy not only evaluates the swallowing act and gives information about the function, it also shows mucosal changes and allows localization of them. During this procedure, the patient feels a slight foreign body sensation at the level of the upper esophageal sphincter (UES). Pharyngoesophagoscopy can be repeated without notable disturbances daily, if necessary. It closes the gap between endoscopy with biopsy and the radiological evaluation with contrast medium. It is of high value concerning cost-efficiency, friendly for the patient, and allows quality control.