Sinus Surgery

Sinus Surgery Meaning

Sinus surgery refers to a medical procedure performed to treat chronic sinusitis or other sinus-related conditions. Chronic sinusitis is a condition in which the cavities around nasal passages (sinuses) become inflamed and swollen for an extended period, leading to symptoms such as facial pain, congestion, nasal discharge, and difficulty breathing. Sinus surgery is usually considered when conservative treatments, such as medications and nasal sprays, have not been effective in alleviating the symptoms.

There are several types of sinus surgeries, and the specific procedure chosen depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Common types of sinus surgery include:

1. Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS): FESS is a minimally invasive procedure that is performed through the nostrils. The surgeon uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) to see inside the sinuses and guide other surgical instruments. During FESS, the surgeon may remove blockages, such as polyps, inflamed tissue, or bone. They may also widen the sinus openings to improve drainage. FESS is typically performed under general anesthesia, but it can also be done under local anesthesia with sedation.

2. Balloon sinuplasty: Balloon sinuplasty is another minimally invasive procedure that is used to treat chronic sinusitis. During balloon sinuplasty, the surgeon inserts a thin, flexible tube with a balloon on the end into the sinuses. The balloon is then inflated to widen the sinus openings and improve drainage. Balloon sinuplasty is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation.

3. Septoplasty: Septoplasty is a procedure to correct a deviated septum. A deviated septum is a condition in which the wall between the nostrils is crooked and blocking one or both sides of the nose. Septoplasty can be performed alone or in conjunction with other sinus surgery procedures.

4. Turbinate reduction: Turbinate reduction is a procedure to reduce the size of the turbinates. Turbinates are small, bony ridges in the nose that help to filter, warm, and humidify the air. Enlarged turbinates can block airflow and make it difficult to breathe. Turbinate reduction can be performed alone or in conjunction with other sinus surgery procedures.

5. Adenoidectomy: An adenoidectomy is a procedure to remove the adenoids. Adenoids are small masses of tissue located at the back of the nose. Enlarged adenoids can block airflow and make it difficult to breathe. Adenoidectomy is typically performed in children, but it can also be performed in adults.

6. Caldwell Luc surgery: Also known as Caldwell-Luc antrostomy, is a surgical procedure to open and drain the maxillary sinus. The maxillary sinus is a large air-filled cavity located in the cheekbone. It is one of the four pairs of sinuses in the head.       

Caldwell-Luc surgery is typically performed to treat chronic sinusitis that has not responded to other treatments, such as antibiotics and nasal sprays. It may also be used to treat other sinus problems, such as nasal polyps, tumors, and foreign objects in the sinus.

The procedure for sinus surgery can vary depending on the type of surgery being performed and the patient's individual needs. However, here is a general outline of what you can expect during a typical Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS), which is one of the most common types of sinus surgery:

Here is a step-by-step overview of the FESS procedure:

1. The patient is placed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation.

2. The surgeon inserts an endoscope into one nostril and guides it into the sinuses.

3. The surgeon then inserts other surgical instruments through the endoscope to remove blockages and widen the sinus openings.

4. Once the surgery is complete, the surgeon removes the endoscope and surgical instruments.

5. The surgeon may pack the nose with gauze or other material to help control bleeding and swelling.

Risks of Sinus Surgery:

• Bleeding

• Infection

• Scarring

• Damage to nearby structures, such as the eyes, teeth, nerves, and blood vessels

• Persistent sinus problems

• Changes in the sense of smell or taste

• Recurrence of the sinus problem

• Nasal Blockage or Congestion

• Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Leak

• Relief of sinus symptoms, such as facial pain and pressure, nasal congestion and drainage, headaches, and loss of smell and taste

• Improved quality of life

• Reduced risk of sinus complications, such as meningitis and brain abscesses

• Better Breathing

• Enhanced Sense of Smell and Taste

• Polyp Removal

• Prevention of Complications

The recovery time for sinus surgery varies depending on the type of surgery that is performed and the individual patient. However, most people are able to return to work or school within a week or so, and resume their normal routine within two weeks.
Here is a general overview of the sinus surgery recovery process:

• Days 1-3: You will likely experience some pain and discomfort in your nose and sinuses. You may also have nasal congestion and drainage. Your surgeon may prescribe pain medication and antibiotics to help manage your symptoms.

• Days 4-7: The pain and discomfort should start to subside. You may still have some nasal congestion and drainage, but it should be less severe. You should be able to return to light activities, such as walking or desk work.

• Days 7-14: You should be able to resume most of your normal activities. However, you should avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for at least two weeks.

• Weeks 2-6: Your nose and sinuses should continue to heal. You may still have some nasal congestion and drainage, but it should be very mild. You should be able to return to all of your normal activities.

It is important to follow your surgeon's instructions carefully during your recovery. This will help to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.

Here are some tips for a successful sinus surgery recovery:

• Get plenty of rest.

• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

• Elevate your head when you sleep.

• Use saline nasal spray or irrigation to keep your nose and sinuses moist.

• Avoid blowing your nose for at least a week after surgery.

• Take any medications that your surgeon has prescribed.

• Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for at least two weeks after surgery.

If you have any questions or concerns about your sinus surgery recovery, be sure to talk to your doctor.

Sinus Surgery Cost in Delhi