Our Summary

This study looked at the effectiveness of a special inhaler (EDS-FLU; XHANCE®) that uses a different way to deliver an anti-inflammatory medication for sinus issues. The researchers wanted to see whether it worked differently for patients who had recurring sinus problems after having sinus surgery, compared to those who had never had sinus surgery.

To do this, they analyzed data from two large clinical trials. They looked at things like the severity of sinusitis symptoms, the grade of nasal polyps, and measures of quality of life.

They found that both groups of patients - those who had had surgery and those who hadn’t - reported similar and noticeable improvements in symptoms and quality of life when they used the EDS-FLU inhaler. However, they found that patients who had previously had sinus surgery seemed to benefit slightly more from a higher dose of the medication, but this difference wasn’t large enough to be statistically significant.

In summary, the EDS-FLU inhaler seems to provide significant relief for patients with recurring sinus problems, regardless of whether they’ve had sinus surgery before.

FAQs

  1. What is the EDS-FLU inhaler and what is it used for?
  2. Did the study find any differences in effectiveness of the EDS-FLU inhaler between patients who have had sinus surgery and those who haven’t?
  3. Does the EDS-FLU inhaler provide relief for all patients with recurring sinus problems?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about nasal polyp removal is to consider using a special inhaler like EDS-FLU (XHANCE®) for ongoing management of symptoms. This inhaler delivers anti-inflammatory medication directly to the nasal passages, which can help reduce inflammation and improve symptoms. It may be especially beneficial for patients who have had sinus surgery in the past, as it can provide additional relief. Be sure to follow your doctor’s recommendations for proper use of the inhaler and discuss any concerns or questions you may have.

Suitable For

Patients who are recommended nasal polyp removal typically have recurring sinus problems, severe symptoms of sinusitis, and grade of nasal polyps that are causing significant discomfort or obstruction. These patients may have tried other treatments such as medications or nasal sprays without success, leading to a recommendation for surgical removal of the polyps.

Timeline

Before nasal polyp removal:

  • Patient may experience symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, postnasal drip, loss of sense of smell, and facial pain or pressure.
  • Patient may have tried other treatments such as nasal sprays, corticosteroids, antihistamines, and antibiotics without success.
  • Patient may undergo diagnostic tests such as nasal endoscopy, CT scan, or allergy testing to confirm the presence of nasal polyps.

After nasal polyp removal:

  • Patient undergoes nasal polyp removal surgery, which may be done using endoscopic sinus surgery or traditional surgery techniques.
  • Patient may experience some discomfort, swelling, and congestion in the days following surgery.
  • Patient may need to use nasal rinses and sprays to help with healing and prevent infection.
  • Patient may have follow-up appointments with their doctor to monitor healing and discuss long-term management of sinus issues.
  • Patient may experience improved symptoms such as better breathing, reduced nasal congestion, and improved sense of smell.

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. Are there any alternative treatments or medications that could be considered before opting for surgery?
  5. How long will it take for me to see improvements in my symptoms after the surgery?
  6. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions or take any medications after the surgery?
  7. Are there any long-term effects or potential complications that I should be aware of after having nasal polyp removal surgery?
  8. How often will I need follow-up appointments after the surgery to monitor my condition?
  9. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions that I should take to prevent the recurrence of nasal polyps after surgery?
  10. What can I expect in terms of symptom relief and quality of life improvements after having nasal polyp removal surgery?

Reference

Authors: Ow RA, Soler ZM, Sindwani R, Leopold DA, Lee JT, Mahmoud RA, Han JK. Journal: Int Forum Allergy Rhinol. 2023 Jan;13(1):31-41. doi: 10.1002/alr.23043. Epub 2022 Jun 26. PMID: 35674488