Content
Sinusitis surgery, also called sinusectomy, is indicated in cases of chronic sinusitis, in which the symptoms last for more than 3 months, and which is caused by anatomical problems, such as alteration of the nasal septum, nasal polyps or narrowing of the cavities orofacial, for example.
The objective of the surgery is to enlarge or unblock the natural drainage channels of the sinuses, avoiding the accumulation of secretions that end up infected and inflaming the sinuses, generating sinusitis.
Although it has good results, in most cases, surgery is only done to allow nasal medications to be able to reach the sinuses and relieve inflammation more quickly. Thus, surgery may not be able to cure sinusitis, but it helps medical treatment to relieve symptoms faster.
When is indicated
Sinus surgery is indicated when the person has frequent episodes of sinusitis and when treatment with drugs is not enough to relieve symptoms or prevent other episodes.
In addition, this surgery is indicated when sinusitis is the result of some anatomical alteration, such as the presence of nasal polyps, deviated septum and narrowing of the orofacial cavities, for example. Thus, when performing the surgery, it is possible to drain the accumulated secretions and promote adequate ventilation of the sinuses.
Thus, the doctor can make an assessment of the person's general health and indicate the performance of sinusectomy, in most cases surgery by videoendoscopy is indicated, since it is associated with a lower risk of complications and the recovery time is shorter. .
See how sinusitis is treated.
How is the surgery done
Sinusitis surgery is usually done under general anesthesia to reduce the risk of complications and avoid the person's discomfort. The type of surgery normally indicated is sinusectomy by videoendoscopy, in which it is not necessary to make cuts and, therefore, there is no scar related to the procedure and the recovery time is shorter when compared to traditional surgery.
The sinusitis surgery by videoendoscopy consists of the introduction through the nostril of an instrument with a small camera attached to its end, which is capable of providing images of the inside of the nose so that the doctor can drain the accumulated secretion, promote the proper aeration of the sinuses. face and remove tissue or bone that may be causing obstruction.
As the procedure does not require external cuts, after the surgery it is indicated that the person remains around 24 hours in the hospital to be monitored and the effect of the anesthesia to pass. In addition, as it is a simpler procedure, the recovery time is about 2 to 4 weeks, it is important to follow all the doctor's recommendations.
Balloon surgery
Another type of surgery for sinusitis is that performed with an inflatable balloon, called balloon sinuplasty. In it the doctor introduces a thin instrument that has an inflatable balloon at the tip, in the person's nostril. When the instrument arrives at the correct location, the balloon is inflated, breaking some small bony parts that are squeezing the channels, facilitating the removal of secretions.
How is recovery
Recovery from sinus surgery is relatively quick, however it can be a little painful, so it is important to follow your doctor's instructions. Thus, during this phase it is recommended:
- Avoid touching the nose;
- Wash your face with cold water only;
- Take all medications prescribed by the doctor;
- Eat a pasty and cold food in the first week;
- Avoid eating hot food or drinking hot drinks for 7 days;
- Do nasal washes daily or according to the doctor's instructions.
It is normal that after sinus surgery the person has nasal obstruction, swelling in the face and bleeding, however these symptoms pass over time as the inflammation passes. To promote recovery and relieve discomfort, your doctor may recommend applying ice to your nose or face or using anti-inflammatory drugs.
Headache, pressure in the ears and a feeling of heaviness in the face are also common in the first 3 to 4 days and can be treated with painkillers prescribed by the doctor. From the 8th day it is possible to return to your normal activities and physical activity can occur after the 1st month, however it is important to first consult the doctor to find out if there is any risk.
Possible risks
Complications of sinus surgery are rare, especially when surgery is performed at a certified clinic. However, as the sinuses are very close to the eyes and the base of the brain, in some cases, bleeding, eye damage and vision or infection of the eyes and brain may occur.
Created by: Tua Saúde Editorial Team
Bibliography>
- ABDO, Tatiana Regina T. Impact of functional sinusectomy on the quality of life of patients with variable common immunodeficiency and chronic rhinosinusitis. Doctoral Thesis, 2011. Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo.
- FACULTY OF MEDICINE OF THE UNIVERSITY OF SÃO PAULO - SECTOR OF OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGY. Endoscopic sinus surgery. Available in: . Accessed on 04 Nov 2020