Supriya Ramesh • 17 Dec 2024
All You Need to Know About Nasal Polyp Surgery and Sinus Health
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Nasal polyps can be a persistent issue for individuals suffering from chronic sinusitis, allergies, or fungal infections, often leading to breathing difficulties and discomfort. When medications and conservative treatments fail, nasal polyp surgery becomes a vital option for relief.
This minimally invasive procedure, known as functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS), not only clears the sinuses but also helps restore proper ventilation and drainage. Dr. Anand Gupta, HOD and Sr. Consultant, Department of ENT, Head and Neck Surgery at Marengo Asia Hospitals, Faridabad, shares insights into the surgery, its benefits, and the importance of long-term sinus health management.
What is Nasal Polyp Surgery?
Nasal polyp surgery removes polyps from the paranasal sinuses. These polyps are growths found in the sinus areas, including the maxillary, ethmoid, frontal, and sphenoid sinuses, although not all patients will have polyps in every sinus.
According to Dr. Gupta, the primary goal of FESS is to establish proper sinus ventilation and achieve mucociliary clearance, which is essential for maintaining healthy sinuses. Modern advancements, such as image-guided navigation surgery, allow surgeons to visualise and completely remove polyps with precision, improving patient outcomes significantly.
Who Needs Nasal Polyp Surgery?
Dr. Gupta says that patients with chronic sinusitis, allergic polyps, or conditions like fungal sinusitis, including severe cases such as black fungus, often require this procedure. The surgery can be performed on individuals of all age groups.
“Sinus or nasal polyp surgery is very rewarding for patients,” says Dr. Gupta. “It usually results in the complete opening of the nasal passage, providing significant relief from symptoms.”
Preparing for Surgery and Post-Surgical Care
Proper preparation and post-surgical care play crucial roles in ensuring the success of nasal polyp surgery.
Dr. Gupta advises patients to:
- Avoid cold environments and maintain good nasal hygiene before the procedure.
- Understand that polyps can recur, necessitating close follow-ups after surgery.
- Follow-up schedules typically include visits at two weeks, three months, six months, and annually. Diagnostic endoscopic examinations and suctioning are performed during these visits.
- Address the root cause of nasal polyps, which is often allergic.
Allergy Management and Recurrence Prevention
“To prevent recurrence, patients must identify and control their allergies,” explains Dr. Gupta. Allergy testing and specific allergen avoidance are crucial steps. In severe cases, immunotherapy may be recommended to help patients manage their allergic responses effectively.
Goals and Long-Term Benefits of Sinus Surgery
The objective of sinus surgery is not to remove the sinuses but to widen their openings. Dr. Gupta shares that this allows for better delivery of allergy medications into the sinus cavity, helping control allergies and prevent future polyps.
“Nasal bridge depressions are not common after sinus surgery,” he says, dispelling common myths about the procedure. The ultimate reward is improved sinus health and quality of life for patients who follow post-operative care protocols diligently.
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