Endoscopic sinus surgery is the most modern method of treating chronic inflammation of the paranasal sinuses. The aim of the procedure is to remove the inflamed mucosa that is contributing to the blockage of the sinuses. Check what is endoscopic surgery of the paranasal sinuses, who qualifies for the procedure and what are the benefits of such a minimally invasive procedure.
Endoscopic surgery of the paranasal sinusesis a method of treating chronic inflammation of the paranasal sinuses. The aim of the procedure is to thoroughly remove the inflamed mucosa (located within the mouths of the paranasal sinuses - the so-called estro-ductal complex), create a wide connection between the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses, and consequently open the sinuses.
Thanks to the use of optical endoscopes and special microsurgical tools, the doctor is able to precisely remove all lesions blocking the paranasal sinuses, without affecting the anatomical structures.
Who is eligible for endoscopic sinus surgery?
A person struggling with sinusitis should first consult an ENT specialist. During the visit at the clinic, the doctor will write a referral for appropriate tests, thanks to which he will determine the scope of changes in the paranasal sinuses. After being qualified by an ENT specialist for sinus surgery, the patient is examined by an anesthesiologist to determine if there are any contraindications for general anesthesia. Laboratory tests of blood, EKG and chest X-ray are also performed.
Preparation for endoscopic sinus surgery
The patient is not allowed to eat min. 6 hours and drink min. 4 hours before the scheduled surgery. For 3 days before the operation, the patient must not take anticoagulants, e.g. polopyrin or aspirin, because they increase the risk of bleeding during the operation and in the postoperative period.
How is endoscopic sinus surgery performed?
Endoscopic sinus surgeryis performed under general anesthesia. The doctor inserts an endoscope probe into the nasal cavity. As a result, the monitor visualizes recesses and openings of natural sinuses as well as all changed tissuesthat block them. Then the doctor inserts very delicate, microsurgical instruments through the nostrils, with the help of which he removes the inflamed mucosa, which is the cause of the disease.
The pathologically changed mucosa blocks the outflow of secretions from the sinuses and creates conditions for the development of chronic inflammation. In this way, the natural opening of the sinuses is restored, which allows the mucosa to regenerate and to restore proper ventilation of the paranasal sinuses. The last stage of the procedure is the so-called tamponade, which will be held for 48 hours.
This way of accessing inflamed areas allows avoiding skin cuts on the face. In addition, the procedure allows the preservation of intact anatomical structures that are not affected by the disease process. Its advantages are also significant reduction of postoperative pain and short hospitalization time of the patient.
Recommendations after endoscopic sinus surgery
The patient remains in the hospital for 2 days after the sinus surgery. After this period, the doctor removes the tamponade and sets the date of further visits, during which contractions and nasal cleansing will be performed. The doctor should also inform the patient about the need to use nasal steroid therapy.
The other recommendations include: rinsing the nose with 0.9% sodium chloride solution and limiting physical and professional activity within 7 days from the procedure.
How much does endoscopic sinus surgery cost?
People with he alth insurance may queue for a free surgery. In a private clinic, this type of procedure costs about PLN 7,000. PLN.