If your chronic sinusitis symptoms persist despite medication, endoscopic sinus surgery may be an option. The goal of the surgery is to enlarge the inflamed or obstructed sinus passageways. The Ear Nose, and Throat (ENT) surgeons access the sinuses through the nasal opening using a small telescope, an endoscope, for visualization. They enlarge the sinus passageways using surgical instruments which remove inflamed bone and tissue and dilate the sinus openings.

In the weeks following surgery, surgeons usually schedule frequent postoperative visits to clean the sinus cavities and ensure that they are open, healing well and without scarring. While surgery provides benefit to many patients, inflammation and scarring can take place even in the first 30 days, diminishing the impact of surgery or causing symptoms to return. There is now a new technology that is placed at the time of surgery and clinically proven to reduce inflammation and scarring. To learn about how the PROPEL®sinus implant can improve your sinus surgery outcomes, please click the PROPEL® sinus implant link in the navigation menu.

Reducing scarring and inflammation following surgery has been shown to lead to better long-term outcomes and reduce the need for revision surgery. (1)

The Procedure

Endoscopic Sinus Surgery - Healthy Sinuses

Healthy sinuses with normal drainage pathway

Endoscopic Sinus Surgery - Sinus Disease

Chronic sinus disease blocks the drainage pathway

Endoscopic Sinus Surgery - Sinus Drainage

Sinus surgery restores the natural drainage pathway

Post-Surgery Care

After surgery, your care may include nasal irrigation (e.g Neilmed Sinus Rinse™, LAVI Sinus Wash), oral antibiotics and pain medicine. Take all of your medication as directed for the best outcomes.

Additionally, you can expect some bleeding, drainage and discomfort (e.g. pain, headaches). Sleeping with your head elevated 30 degrees is helpful to reduce sinus swelling and bleeding. Try your best not to blow your nose, bend over, lift heavy objects or physically exert yourself for 1-2 weeks after surgery. If you have to sneeze or cough, keep your mouth open and avoid pinching your nose.

In the weeks following surgery, surgeons usually schedule frequent visits to clean the sinus cavities and ensure that they are open, healing well and without scarring.

Endoscopic Sinus Surgery