Current status of nasofibroscopy as a diagnostic tool in Otorhinolaryngology in Chile

Abstract

Introduction: Nasofibroscopy (NFC) is one of the most useful tools in the evaluation of pathologies in the Otorhinolaryngological area. However, despite its great relevance, it is not available in all health centers in Chile, a deficit that became more relevant during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Objective: The aim of this study was to gather information on the availability and use of nasofibroscopy in various ENT services in Chile, including both the public and private health systems. In addition, we sought to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the demand for this procedure. Materials and Methods: A des- criptive study was carried out by sending a survey in Google Forms® format to the members of the Chilean Society of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery (Sociedad Chile­na de Otorrinolaringología y Cirugía de Cabeza y Cuello). The results of the survey were anonymous. Results: Responses were obtained from a total of 118 health centers. Seventy one percent of respondents reported an increase in demand for nasofibroscopy during the COVID-19 pandemic. 53% and 87% of private and public facilities, respectively, reported “not enough” NFC in their services. Conclusion: Both at the public and private levels, shortcomings in the quality, quantity and availability of nasofibroscopy were evident, being more marked in the case of the public system, which supports most of the Chilean popu- lation. Health policies focused on prioritizing resources and improving the efficiency of the system are required.