Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (ESS) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat chronic sinusitis and other ENT conditions. Thanks to the use of endoscopic technology, it is possible to precisely remove pathological changes without the need to make large incisions.
Indications for endoscopic sinus surgery
The most common indications for ESS are:
- Chronic sinusitis refractory to pharmacological treatment.
- Nasal polyps that make breathing difficult and obstruct the nasal passages.
- Anatomical abnormalities (e.g. deviated nasal septum) leading to recurrent infections.
- Fungal sinusitis.
- Paranasal sinus tumors requiring removal.
The course of the ESS procedure
The operation is performed under general or local anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the procedure. The basic stages of the procedure include:
- Insertion of an endoscope through the nasal cavity to obtain an image of the interior of the sinuses.
- Evaluation of pathological changes using imaging techniques (e.g. computed tomography).
- Gentle removal of pathological tissue, polyps or hypertrophic mucosa.
- Widening the natural openings of the sinuses to improve their drainage.
- Closing any bleeding sites and applying intranasal dressings.
Benefits of Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Compared to classical surgical methods, FESS has a number of advantages, such as:
- Minimally invasive – no external incisions or scars.
- Shortened recovery time.
- Precise elimination of pathological changes while maintaining healthy structures.
- Reduced risk of complications such as infections or bleeding.
Recovery after surgery
The recovery period usually lasts from several days to several weeks, depending on the extent of the procedure and the patient’s individual predispositions. It is recommended:
- Avoid physical exertion for the first two weeks.
- Regular nasal rinsing with saline.
- Avoiding irritants such as tobacco smoke.
- Strictly follow your doctor’s recommendations and use prescribed medications.
Summary
Endoscopic sinus surgery is an effective and safe treatment for chronic nasal and sinus conditions. Early diagnosis and qualification for surgery allow for a significant improvement in the quality of life of patients, reduction of recurrent infections and restoration of normal breathing.
