If medicine has failed to improve or cure your chronic sinusitis, you are likely a good candidate for endoscopic sinus surgery. Although many cases of sinusitis get relief without surgery, when they do require surgery, endoscopic sinus surgery is the most preferred method—and for good reason. According to the University of Michigan Medical School, it has shown to improve the symptoms in 90% of patients.
What is Endoscopic Sinus Surgery?
Is performed to alleviate symptoms of sinusitis, remove nasal polyps, and more. The goal is to improve sinus drainage and allow for increased airflow through the nose. The procedure uses an endoscope, which is a thin rod with a camera and light at the end. By entering through the nostrils, the endoscope allows the surgeon to see the sinus tissues without cutting into the skin. Here’s what to expect:
- First, you will be put under anesthesia to ensure comfort during the procedure.
- The surgeon will insert the endoscope into your nose, which provides a visual reference point, as well as magnification of the sinus tissues.
- Your doctor will use different instruments and tools to safely remove the causes of the sinus blockage, whether it’s a polyp, scar tissue, etc.
Most patients can go home that very same day. While minor discomfort and a little bleeding are common post-op, these should go away within a few weeks. Your doctor will likely pack the nose with gauze to absorb any blood and other drainage, and prescribe an antibiotic and nasal spray to reduce the risk of infection or inflammation.
The Benefits of Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
One of the main benefits, aside from symptom relief, is that endoscopic sinus surgery does not cause visible scarring like other types of surgical methods. Since this minimally invasive procedure is done entirely through the nostrils, without any cutting of the skin, it requires a shorter hospital stay—and likely a shorter recovery period!
If you suffer from obstructed airways, chronic sinusitis symptoms, or even a deviated septum, which negatively impacts your quality of life, talk to your doctor today. If medicines and more traditional treatments have not worked to improve or cure your symptoms, endoscopic sinus surgery is a wonderful option that is minimally invasive and proven to be very effective.
