Sinus surgery is a surgical procedure that is performed to treat chronic sinusitis, a condition in which the lining of the sinuses becomes inflamed, causing symptoms such as congestion, facial pain, headaches, and difficulty breathing. The surgery is also performed to treat nasal polyps, which are small, benign growths that can develop in the sinuses or nasal passages.
There are several types of sinus surgery, including:
Endoscopic sinus surgery: This is the most common type of sinus surgery and involves using a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end (endoscope) to remove blockages and open up the sinuses.
Balloon sinuplasty: This is a minimally invasive procedure in which a small balloon is inserted into the sinuses and inflated to open up the passageways.
Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS): This type of surgery is used to remove damaged tissue or bone that is obstructing the sinuses and to widen the openings between the sinuses and the nasal passages.
Sinus surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and can be done on an outpatient basis. Recovery time can vary depending on the extent of the surgery and the patient’s overall health, but most people are able to return to work and normal activities within a few days to a week after the procedure. The success rate of sinus surgery varies depending on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause, but in general, the procedure can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life for people with chronic sinusitis or nasal polyps.