Endoscopic sinus surgery removes blockages within the sinuses and prevents further inflammation of the sinus mucous membranes. This procedure may be necessary when medicine does not improve chronic sinusitis.
What is it?
This procedure is a method of clearing the sinuses using the guidance of an endoscope. It is typically used to treat infection and inflammation of the sinuses. The majority of people have four sinuses on each side, and these can be accessed as necessary using endoscopic sinus surgery.
What should I do to prepare?
Doctors recommend that patients avoid medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen that may lead to bleeding before the surgery. The doctor may recommend taking antibiotics or steroids beforehand as well. Patients should consult a doctor to identify medication plans suitable to their needs.
What happens during the process?
This procedure is performed under either local or general anesthesia. The surgeon advances an endoscope through the nostril and enlarges passages between the sinuses and nose to facilitate drainage.
What are the risks and potential complications?
This procedure involves risks as with any surgical treatment. Specifically, there is the possibility of bleeding, synechiae formation, orbital injury, double vision, orbital hematoma, blindness, cerebrospinal fluid leak, direct brain injury, and nasolacrimal duct injury.
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