Is Endoscopy The Solution For Sinusitis?
Approximately 11.6% of Americans experience sinus pain and swelling. When these symptoms happen repeatedly, the issue may be chronic rhinosinusitis. While not life-threatening, sinusitis can lead to constant pain, discomfort, and a reduced quality of life. However, thanks to advancements in surgery, sinusitis sufferers are finally enjoying long-term relief. Endoscopic sinus surgery ensures the patient can get treatment without the complications of conventional surgery.
What is sinusitis?
The sinuses are a group of interconnected cavities located in the skull. These cavities run behind the nose, cheeks, and other parts of the mid-face. Sinuses contain mucus and tiny hairs that trap and drain dust and bacteria. Certain viruses and bacteria sometimes block the cavities, resulting in swelling and inflammation. Sinusitis can happen occasionally, for example, when pollen and other irritants are more widespread. Chronic sinusitis occurs for several weeks, often more than 4 times yearly. In addition to pain and swelling, headaches, nasal congestion, fever, and reduced smell are other common symptoms.
Treating those blocked passages
Chronic sinusitis often leads to frequent trips to a family doctor or otolaryngologist, also known as an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor. The condition is usually treated with pain medication and antibiotics, as needed. Other options include steroid sprays, decongestants, and nasal washing with saline solutions. While effective, chronic sinusitis cases sometimes fail to respond to these more conservative options.
The endoscopic approach
Surgery is a valuable tool for finally addressing the root causes of chronic sinusitis. While traditional surgery is available, patients can benefit from functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) as well. The procedure uses an endoscope, a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera, to transmit an enlarged image of the sinuses onto a screen. The surgeon can then visualize any possible areas of concern. With the patient under general anesthesia, additional surgical tools are inserted to help remove polyps, blockages, and any other structural abnormalities causing chronic sinusitis.
Sinus surgery benefits
Traditional surgery may involve an incision or, in some cases, the removal of nasal tissue and bone. Additionally, the patient may be required to be hospitalized for at least 1 day. Endoscopic surgery avoids incisions and tissue removal. Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) means the patient gets faster treatment and can leave the hospital the same day. Endoscopic sinus surgery also produces fewer complications like bleeding and tissue damage, meaning the patient recovers faster. The endoscopic tools allow the doctor to navigate the complicated sinus structure, ensuring a more thorough treatment. With MIS, most individuals enjoy significant relief, less sinus pressure, and a higher quality of life.
Get sinusitis under control for good
The pain, sinus pressure, and discomfort of chronic sinusitis can be stressful to manage. While some people respond well to medication, others require additional interventions. Endoscopic sinus surgery allows doctors to navigate the sinus quickly and accurately and remove blockages. If all other options fail to bring relief, consider surgery to breathe better and eliminate pain.
