Our Summary

This research paper discusses a study that was conducted to compare a traditional treatment for nasal polyps (growths in the nose) with a newer technique called dermoplasty. Dermoplasty involves replacing the lining of the nasal cavity with skin.

The study involved 29 patients who had surgery to treat their nasal polyps. Some of these patients also had allergies, asthma, or a sensitivity to aspirin. The researchers assessed the severity of the patients’ polyps and their symptoms both before and after surgery. They also noted any medications the patients were taking for their nose-related issues.

In most of the patients, the researchers performed dermoplasty in one nostril and the traditional treatment in the other, allowing them to directly compare the results of the two techniques in each patient.

The patients were followed up for an average period of around a year. The study found that the severity and symptoms of the patients’ polyps had decreased overall, but the decrease was significantly greater in the nostrils that had undergone dermoplasty.

Most of the patients were able to manage their symptoms with nasal steroid sprays for only 2.5-3 months per year. Additionally, the majority of patients reported an improvement in their sense of smell.

The researchers concluded that dermoplasty may be a more effective treatment for nasal polyps than the traditional approach. They suggested that just removing the polyps isn’t enough to control the condition - preventing the nasal lining from regrowing in the treated areas by using a skin graft might be a key step.

FAQs

  1. What is the efficacy of the dermoplasty technique in controlling nasal polyps compared to the conventional endoscopic approach?
  2. What is the role of a skin graft in controlling nasal polyps after removal?
  3. How does dermoplasty compare to traditional endoscopic surgery for nasal polyp removal in terms of patient outcomes and symptom control?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about nasal polyp removal is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including any prescribed medications and follow-up appointments. It is important to keep the nasal passages clean and free of infection to prevent recurrence of polyps. Additionally, maintaining good nasal hygiene, such as using saline nasal irrigation, can help prevent further inflammation and promote healing.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended nasal polyp removal are those who have chronic rhinosinusitis, allergies, asthma, aspirin intolerance, and who have not responded well to medication such as topical corticosteroids. In this study, the dermoplasty technique was found to be more effective in controlling nasal polyps compared to the conventional endoscopic approach, providing improvement in symptoms, olfaction, and Lildholdt stage. The results suggest that dermoplasty may be a beneficial option for patients with nasal polyps who have not responded well to other treatments.

Timeline

  • Before nasal polyp removal:
  1. Patients may experience symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, postnasal drip, facial pain or pressure, decreased sense of smell, and frequent sinus infections.
  2. Patients may undergo diagnostic tests such as nasal endoscopy, CT scans, or allergy testing to confirm the presence of nasal polyps.
  3. Patients may be prescribed medications such as nasal corticosteroids, antihistamines, or decongestants to manage symptoms.
  • After nasal polyp removal:
  1. Patients undergo surgery to remove nasal polyps, either through conventional endoscopic techniques or dermoplasty.
  2. Patients may experience a significant improvement in symptoms such as nasal congestion, improved sense of smell, and reduced sinus infections.
  3. Patients may need to continue using topical corticosteroids for a period of time post-operatively to prevent polyp regrowth.
  4. Patients may have follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider to monitor their recovery and ensure the polyps do not return.

What to Ask Your Doctor

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

  1. What are the potential risks and complications of the dermoplasty technique compared to the conventional endoscopic approach?
  2. How long is the recovery period after undergoing dermoplasty for nasal polyp removal?
  3. Will I need to take any specific medications or follow a certain treatment regimen after the surgery?
  4. How long can I expect the effects of the dermoplasty technique to last in controlling my nasal polyps?
  5. Are there any specific lifestyle changes or precautions I should take to prevent the recurrence of nasal polyps after undergoing dermoplasty?
  6. How does the cost of dermoplasty compare to the conventional endoscopic approach for nasal polyp removal?
  7. Are there any specific criteria or factors that make me a better candidate for dermoplasty compared to the conventional endoscopic approach?
  8. Can you provide me with information on the success rates of dermoplasty in controlling nasal polyps compared to the conventional endoscopic approach?
  9. Are there any long-term effects or considerations I should be aware of after undergoing dermoplasty for nasal polyp removal?
  10. Are there any alternative treatment options or procedures available for managing nasal polyps that I should consider before deciding on dermoplasty?

Reference

Authors: Anastasopoulos G, Ferekidis E. Journal: Indian J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2019 Nov;71(Suppl 2):1343-1350. doi: 10.1007/s12070-018-1414-4. Epub 2018 May 29. PMID: 31750175