Effect of endoscopic lens defogging agents on nasal mucosal tolerance during diagnostic nasal endoscopy: a pilot comparative study.

OBJECTIVE

Endoscopic lens fogging is a frequent problem during diagnostic nasal endoscopy, often necessitating scope withdrawal and increasing patient discomfort. This study compared the defogging efficacy and nasal mucosal tolerance of Savlon and warm sterile saline.

METHODS

In this prospective pilot comparative study, 40 adult patients undergoing diagnostic nasal endoscopy with a 0° rigid endoscope were randomly assigned to Savlon or warm sterile saline as the defogging agent. Lens fogging severity, patient-reported discomfort, mucosal irritation and need for repeat defogging were assessed.

RESULTS

Both agents demonstrated comparable effectiveness in preventing lens fogging. However, the Savlon group reported significantly higher nasal discomfort and showed greater mucosal irritation compared with the warm saline group.

CONCLUSION

Warm sterile saline offers effective lens defogging with improved mucosal tolerance and patient comfort compared with Savlon during routine nasal endoscopy.