Our Summary

This research paper is about chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP), an inflammation disease causing symptoms like nasal congestion, runny nose, loss of smell and facial pain. These symptoms can be controlled and minimized through treatments. The study focuses particularly on medical treatments for CRSwNP in the last five years.

The researchers found that using saline irrigation (a method of rinsing the nasal passage with saltwater) and topical steroids (medicines applied directly to the nose) are the most common ways to treat CRSwNP. These treatments are used before and after sinus surgery, and for regular maintenance of the disease. Other methods of treatment like alternative steroid delivery, antibiotics, and other topical therapies have been researched but do not show enough evidence to replace the standard treatment.

The study concludes that topical steroid therapy is effective and safe for CRSwNP patients. High-dose nasal steroid rinses have been proven safe and effective. Other methods for administering steroids may be useful for patients who do not respond to the usual steroid sprays and rinses.

The researchers suggest that more studies are needed to find out if oral or topical antibiotics, oral anti-leukotrienes (medicines that block substances in the body that cause inflammation), or other new treatments can significantly reduce symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients with CRSwNP.

FAQs

  1. What are the most common treatments for chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP)?
  2. What is the effectiveness and safety of topical steroid therapy for CRSwNP patients?
  3. Are there any new potential treatments for CRSwNP that need more research?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about nasal polyp removal is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including using prescribed nasal sprays or rinses as directed to help prevent recurrence of polyps. It is also important to attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress and address any concerns. Additionally, maintaining good nasal hygiene, such as using saline irrigation regularly, can help prevent the formation of new polyps.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended nasal polyp removal are those who have severe symptoms of CRSwNP that do not respond to medical treatments such as saline irrigation and topical steroids. These patients may experience persistent nasal congestion, loss of smell, facial pain, and other bothersome symptoms that significantly impact their quality of life. Additionally, patients who have recurrent sinus infections or complications such as sinusitis may also be candidates for nasal polyp removal.

It is important for patients to consult with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for their individual condition. Nasal polyp removal, also known as endoscopic sinus surgery, is a common procedure used to remove nasal polyps and improve symptoms of CRSwNP. This surgery is typically recommended for patients who have not responded to medical treatments or have severe symptoms that significantly impact their daily life.

Timeline

Before nasal polyp removal, a patient may experience symptoms of nasal congestion, runny nose, loss of smell, and facial pain. These symptoms can be managed with treatments such as saline irrigation and topical steroids. If these treatments are not effective, sinus surgery may be recommended.

After nasal polyp removal, patients may experience relief from their symptoms and improved quality of life. They may continue to use saline irrigation and topical steroids for maintenance of the disease. High-dose nasal steroid rinses have been found to be effective and safe for long-term management of CRSwNP.

Further research is needed to explore alternative treatments such as oral or topical antibiotics, oral anti-leukotrienes, and other new therapies that may provide additional benefits for patients with CRSwNP. Overall, the goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms, improve quality of life, and prevent recurrence of nasal polyps.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about nasal polyp removal include:

  1. What are the risks and benefits of nasal polyp removal surgery?
  2. What is the success rate of nasal polyp removal surgery in improving symptoms and preventing recurrence?
  3. What is the recovery process like after nasal polyp removal surgery?
  4. Are there any alternative treatments to surgery that may be effective for nasal polyps?
  5. How long will it take to see improvements in symptoms after nasal polyp removal surgery?
  6. What are the potential complications or side effects of nasal polyp removal surgery?
  7. Will I need to continue using medications or other treatments after nasal polyp removal surgery?
  8. Are there any lifestyle changes or home remedies that can help manage nasal polyps?
  9. How often will I need follow-up appointments after nasal polyp removal surgery?
  10. Are there any specific precautions or restrictions I should be aware of after nasal polyp removal surgery?

Reference

Authors: Staricha KL, Ali HM, Stokken JK. Journal: Am J Rhinol Allergy. 2023 Mar;37(2):153-161. doi: 10.1177/19458924221145256. PMID: 36848283