Our Summary

This research study looked at a condition called Central Compartment Atopic Disease (CCAD), a type of chronic sinusitis. Its effects on the sense of smell were examined in 23 patients (8 men and 15 women) who underwent a type of surgery called Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) in Taiwan between June 2018 and December 2021.

The results showed that most of the patients (95%) had a positive reaction to airborne allergens, and a few (8.7%) also had asthma. About 43.5% of the patients had an excess of a type of white blood cell called eosinophils, and 39% had nasal polyps filled with these cells.

Before the surgery, the patients’ sense of smell was tested using a specific test called the Top International Biotech Smell Identification Test (TIBSIT). The average pre-surgery score was 12.8. After the surgery, this score improved significantly to an average of 29.2, indicating an improved sense of smell. This improvement was not significantly linked to the patients’ age, the percentage of eosinophils in their blood, or the count of eosinophils in their nasal polyps.

The study concluded that CCAD significantly affects the sense of smell, and FESS can effectively improve it. To get the best results in terms of sense of smell after surgery, the study recommends removing nasal polyps carefully without damaging the surrounding tissue. This study is important as it offers valuable insights to guide surgeons in making decisions that will result in the best possible outcome regarding patients’ sense of smell.

FAQs

  1. What is Central Compartment Atopic Disease (CCAD) and how does it affect the sense of smell?
  2. What is Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) and how does it affect patients with CCAD?
  3. How does the removal of nasal polyps impact the sense of smell according to the study?

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 minimize the risk of complications. This may include taking prescribed medications, avoiding activities that could irritate the nasal passages, and attending follow-up appointments as scheduled. Additionally, maintaining good nasal hygiene, such as using saline nasal rinses, can help prevent the recurrence of nasal polyps.

Suitable For

Patients who have chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, and a decreased sense of smell are typically recommended nasal polyp removal, especially if other treatments have been ineffective. In particular, patients with Central Compartment Atopic Disease (CCAD) may benefit from nasal polyp removal to improve their sense of smell. Additionally, patients who have a positive reaction to airborne allergens, asthma, and an excess of eosinophils in their blood or nasal polyps may also be candidates for nasal polyp removal.

Timeline

In summary, before nasal polyp removal, a patient may experience symptoms such as chronic sinusitis, nasal congestion, loss of smell, and difficulty breathing. After nasal polyp removal through a procedure like Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS), patients may experience improved sense of smell, reduced nasal congestion, and improved breathing. The recovery process may involve some discomfort and follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and ensure optimal results.

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. How will my sense of smell be affected before and after the surgery?
  3. What is the success rate of improving sense of smell with this type of surgery?
  4. How long is the recovery period after nasal polyp removal surgery?
  5. Are there any alternative treatments or medications that can help improve my sense of smell without surgery?
  6. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions to ensure the best outcome for my sense of smell?
  7. Are there any potential complications I should be aware of after nasal polyp removal surgery?
  8. How often will I need to follow-up with you after the surgery to monitor my sense of smell and overall recovery?
  9. Can you provide me with any additional resources or information about nasal polyp removal and its impact on sense of smell?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take to prevent the recurrence of nasal polyps in the future?

Reference

Authors: Huang SK, Hsieh CH, Weng MC, Lai JT, Shen PH. Journal: Ther Adv Allergy Rhinol. 2023 Dec 3;14:27534030231217423. doi: 10.1177/27534030231217423. eCollection 2023 Jan-Dec. PMID: 38053675