Which Symptoms Indicate The Need For Sinus Surgery?

 

 

 

     These symptoms may be warning signs of sinusitis. There are various treatment methods for sinusitis, and in some cases, surgery may be the most effective solution. But how can one know when sinus surgery is truly necessary?

 

When Is Sinus Surgery Required?

     Sinus surgery is considered when the condition becomes chronic and does not improve with conventional treatment. If the patient suffers from chronic or acute sinusitis that does not respond to medication—for example, nasal polyps that persist after 1–3 months of medical treatment—surgery may be a more suitable option. A physician will recommend surgery in the following circumstances:

 

1. When Complications Occur

     Surgery becomes necessary if the sinus infection spreads to the eyes or brain or when there is suspicion of a tumor or fungal sinusitis.

 

2. When a Tumor Is Suspected

     If a physician suspects a tumor in the sinuses, surgery is recommended for diagnosis and removal of the tumor.

 

3. When Caused by Fungal Infection

     With advanced surgical technologies, endoscopic sinus surgery can effectively relieve sinus blockage, reduce recurrence, and avoid large external scars on the face.

 

Types of Sinus Surgery

     Surgical techniques have advanced significantly. The current standard is endoscopic sinus surgery (such as Full House FESS), performed through the nasal passages to open the sinus cavities and relieve obstructions.

 

1. Balloon Sinuplasty

     This method involves inserting and inflating a balloon to enlarge the sinus openings, improving airflow and drainage without the need for major surgery.

 

2. Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS and Full House FESS)

     Using an endoscope inserted through the nose, this technique allows the surgeon to view and access the sinus cavities. It helps remove mucus and pus, enhances airflow, enables thorough medication delivery, minimizes complications, reduces bleeding, speeds recovery, and leaves no external scars.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Effectiveness of Treatment

      Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) or Full House FESS enables efficient opening of the sinuses and removal of obstructions like thick mucus and pus, significantly improving chronic sinusitis symptoms.

 

1. Reduced Risk and Trauma

     Since the surgery is performed through the nostrils, there are no external wounds. It involves less trauma and a higher chance of complete recovery compared to traditional methods. Additionally, there is reduced bleeding and no need for nasal packing post-surgery.

 

2. High Safety and Precision

     Endoscopic tools provide high-definition imaging, allowing for precise identification of the affected areas. This minimizes the risk of complications, such as injury to nearby structures like the eyes or brain.

 

3. Comparison with Traditional Surgery

     Compared to conventional sinus surgery, endoscopic methods offer better outcomes, faster recovery, and lower recurrence rates due to improved airflow restoration in the sinus cavities.

 

Postoperative Care Instructions

     Proper self-care following surgery is crucial for rapid healing and the prevention of complications. The physician may place nasal packing, but patients can usually breathe through the nose. During the first 1–2 days, some bleeding may occur during activities like standing up or bending over—typically old blood mixed with cleansing solution, which is not cause for concern.

 

Avoid Blowing the Nose and Coughing Forcefully

     To ensure effective healing, avoid forceful nose blowing, nasal picking, or any trauma to the nose. Also avoid vigorous coughing or heavy lifting. There is no need to rinse the nose yourself, as nasal sprays prescribed by the doctor will suffice.

 

 

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Following postoperative instructions strictly will greatly enhance the success of treatment. Patients should attend all follow-up appointments for continuous evaluation and guidance until full recovery.

 

 

Medical Recommendations

Proper self-care is vital for speedy healing and to prevent complications. Key recommendations include:

 

• Keep Head Elevated: For the first 24–48 hours post-surgery, keeping the head elevated helps reduce swelling and bleeding and facilitates breathing.
• Avoid Forceful Nose Blowing or Picking: These actions can increase pressure around the eyes and may cause blurred vision.
• Drink Water Regularly: Frequent sips of water help soften nasal mucus, making it easier to expel. Drink room-temperature water and avoid extremely cold or hot beverages.
• Attend All Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ups ensure that the healing process is on track and any issues are promptly addressed.

 

 

 

 

 

ENT Endoscopic Surgery Center Is Ready to Care for You

     The ENT Endoscopic Surgery Center at Ramkhamhaeng Hospital is fully equipped to diagnose and treat chronic sinusitis using modern medical technologies. With a strong focus on patient-centered care, we strive to ensure a smooth return to daily life post-surgery. Ramkhamhaeng Hospital is committed to providing care and reassurance to patients and their loved ones throughout their treatment journey with us.