Our Summary

This research paper examines the methods used in ancient times, specifically during the fifth century BC, to treat nasal polyps. The researchers studied the Corpus Hippocraticum, a collection of 58 volumes written between 450 and 150 BC, in French translation. The Corpus Hippocraticum, attributed to Hippocrates who is often called the father of medicine, contains detailed descriptions of various surgical procedures.

The study found that there were two main techniques for removing nasal polyps, both of which were minimally invasive and performed through the nose. The first was the ’lopping method’ and the other was the ‘sponge method’. The paper includes illustrations to explain these two techniques.

The detailed descriptions provided in the Corpus Hippocraticum offer valuable insights into how diseases were understood and treated in ancient times.

FAQs

  1. What were the two techniques used in the fifth century BC for nasal polyp removal as described in the Corpus Hippocraticum?
  2. What is the Corpus Hippocraticum and who is it attributed to?
  3. How were the surgical procedures described in the Corpus Hippocraticum performed and what do they reveal about medical understanding in ancient times?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about nasal polyp removal is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of complications. This may include avoiding strenuous activities, keeping the nasal passages clean, and taking prescribed medications as directed. It is also important to attend follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your recovery progress.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended nasal polyp removal are those who have severe symptoms such as persistent nasal congestion, loss of sense of smell, facial pain or pressure, and frequent sinus infections. Nasal polyps are non-cancerous growths that can block the nasal passages and cause these symptoms. If medications such as nasal corticosteroids or antihistamines do not effectively shrink the polyps or relieve symptoms, surgery may be recommended. Surgery is usually considered a last resort for patients who have not responded to other treatments.

Timeline

Before nasal polyp removal:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms such as nasal congestion, loss of smell, runny nose, facial pain or pressure, and frequent sinus infections.
  2. Patient may undergo a physical examination, nasal endoscopy, and imaging tests such as CT scan or MRI to diagnose nasal polyps.
  3. Patient may be prescribed medications such as nasal corticosteroids, antihistamines, or decongestants to manage symptoms.

After nasal polyp removal:

  1. Patient undergoes nasal polyp removal surgery, which can be done endoscopically or through traditional open surgery.
  2. Patient may experience mild discomfort, nasal congestion, and bloody discharge immediately after surgery.
  3. Patient is advised to follow post-operative care instructions such as avoiding blowing the nose, taking prescribed medications, and attending follow-up appointments.
  4. Patient gradually experiences relief from symptoms such as improved breathing, reduced nasal congestion, and restoration of sense of smell.
  5. Patient may undergo periodic follow-up appointments to monitor for recurrence of nasal polyps and to adjust treatment if needed.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with nasal polyp removal surgery?
  2. What is the success rate of nasal polyp removal surgery?
  3. What is the recovery process like after nasal polyp removal surgery?
  4. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions?
  5. Are there any alternative treatments available for nasal polyps?
  6. How long will it take for me to see improvements in my symptoms after the surgery?
  7. Will I need to undergo any additional treatments or follow-up appointments after the surgery?
  8. How long do the effects of nasal polyp removal surgery typically last?
  9. Are there any lifestyle changes I should make to prevent nasal polyps from recurring?
  10. Can you explain the specific technique that will be used for my nasal polyp removal surgery?

Reference

Authors: Benmoussa N, D’andrea G, Moya-Plana A, Philippe C. Journal: Surg Radiol Anat. 2022 Oct;44(10):1375-1378. doi: 10.1007/s00276-022-03030-6. Epub 2022 Oct 8. PMID: 36208336