Transnasal Endoscopy (TNE): Before Your Child’s Procedure

A transnasal endoscopy (TNE) is a procedure that allows the doctor to look at the inside lining of your child’s esophagus, the stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). A thin, flexible viewing tool called an endoscope (scope) is used. The tip of the scope is inserted through your child’s nose and then gently moved down their throat into the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Using the scope, your child's doctor can look for ulcers, inflammation, tumors, infection, or bleeding.

This procedure is another way to do an upper endoscopy. An upper endoscopy places the scope through your child’s mouth. It uses medicines to help your child relax, such as sedatives and anesthesia. A TNE (also called an unsedated transnasal endoscopy) doesn’t use the same medicines. Children often have less preparation for this procedure and have a faster recovery. They also avoid the side effects from anesthesia.

It's done by a doctor with special training using an endoscope.

Medicine is used to numb your child's nose and mouth. This will keep your child comfortable. A thin scope with a camera and light is placed into your child’s nose and gently moved down their throat and into the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. Small tools may be placed through the scope to take samples (biopsies) of tissue.

Your child will be able to breathe and talk during the procedure. It takes about 15 to 30 minutes.

Procedures can be stressful for both you and your child. This information will help you understand what you can expect. And it will help you safely prepare for your child's procedure.

• Talk to your child about the procedure. Tell them that the endoscopy will help find what's causing problems in your child's belly. Hospitals know how to take care of children. The staff will do all they can to make it easier for your child.
• Understand exactly what procedure is planned, along with the risks, benefits, and other options.
• Tell the doctor ALL the medicines, vitamins, supplements, and herbal remedies your child takes. Some may increase the risk of problems during the procedure. Your doctor will tell you if your child should stop taking any of them before the procedure and how soon to do it.

• A nurse may call you (or you may need to call the hospital). This is to confirm the time and date of your child's procedure and answer any questions.
• Remember to follow your doctor's instructions about your child taking or stopping medicines before the procedure. This includes over-the-counter medicines.

• Follow the instructions exactly about when your child should stop eating and drinking. If you don't, the procedure may be canceled. If the doctor told you to have your child take any medicines on the day of the procedure, have your child take them with only a sip of water.
• Your child may brush their teeth. But tell your child not to swallow any toothpaste or water.
• Be sure your child has something that reminds them of home. A special stuffed animal, toy, or blanket may be comforting. For an older child, it might be a book or music.

• A parent or legal guardian must accompany your child.
• Your child will be kept comfortable and safe during the procedure.
• After the procedure, your child will be taken to the recovery room. The doctor will talk to you about the procedure.
• You can take your child home after your doctor checks to make sure your child is not having any problems.

Problems with this procedure are rare. The risks can include:

• Mild nosebleeds.
• Fainting.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Nasal or throat pain.
• Mild gastrointestinal bleeding.
• A small hole in the esophagus, stomach, or small intestine.