Nasosinusal polyposis is a benign chronic inflammatory disease of the nasal passages that is frequently associated with allergy and/or asthma. It causes respiratory obstruction, recurrent infections (sinusitis) and alterations in olfactory and taste perception; sometimes it can even lead to facial deformities.
Polyp growth can be controlled by oral or inhaled corticosteroids. However, ENT specialists state that in a certain number of cases it is necessary to remove the polyps by endoscopic surgery.
Endoscopic nasosinusal surgery
Nasosinusal endoscopic surgery (NENS) is the treatment of choice for polyposis and other variants of chronic sinusitis with poor response to pharmacological treatment. It is performed under general anesthesia, so a preoperative study appropriate to age and clinical history must be performed.
Polyp removal is performed under endoscopic vision through the nostrils. After surgery, a nasal packing is placed and usually removed after 48-72 hours.
Endoscopic nasosinusal surgery does not cause pain either during or after the operation. The most notable discomfort is the need to breathe through the mouth due to nasal packing, for which the administration of anxiolytics can be useful.
The postoperative period is quick and well tolerated. Usually a cleaning of the crusts and secretions is performed after two weeks in the office, also under endoscopic control. Periodic follow-up should be maintained, as this is a chronic inflammatory disease and polyps may sometimes reappear.
Complications of endoscopic nasosinus surgery
Endoscopic nasosinusal surgery rarely presents complications. Although unusual, the most common are bleeding after unclogging, orbital hematoma and, exceptionally, visual disturbances.