Our Summary

This research paper discusses how to best treat a particular type of chronic sinus infection, known as type 2 CRS. Experts from all over the world worked together to come up with 68 potential strategies, and they all agreed on 45 of these. The recommendations include when to perform surgery, how extensive the surgery should be, and how to manage the patient during the operation. A key point is to perform a complete sinus surgery, which involves removing certain bone partitions and opening up the sinuses. The surgeons should also remove all nasal polyps and infected tissue to ensure the best conditions for further treatment. Before considering certain antibody therapies, complete sinus surgery should be performed unless there’s a reason not to. These 45 agreed-upon strategies provide crucial guidance for doctors in treating this type of chronic sinus infection.

FAQs

  1. What is the best treatment for type 2 CRS according to the research?
  2. What are some of the recommendations for performing surgery for type 2 CRS?
  3. What is the importance of complete sinus surgery in treating type 2 CRS?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing nasal polyp removal surgery to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including avoiding activities that could irritate the nasal passages and using prescribed medications as directed. It is important to attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing and prevent complications. Additionally, maintaining good nasal hygiene, such as using saline nasal sprays or rinses, can help prevent the recurrence of nasal polyps.

Suitable For

Patients with type 2 chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) are typically recommended nasal polyp removal as part of their treatment plan. Type 2 CRS is characterized by the presence of nasal polyps and is often associated with underlying allergic conditions such as asthma. Nasal polyp removal, also known as sinus surgery, is recommended for patients with type 2 CRS who have not responded well to other treatments such as medications or nasal corticosteroids.

Sinus surgery for nasal polyp removal is often recommended when the polyps are causing significant symptoms such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, or loss of smell. The surgery aims to remove the polyps and any infected tissue in the sinuses to improve airflow and reduce inflammation. In some cases, additional procedures may be performed during the surgery to address underlying structural issues in the sinuses.

Overall, patients with type 2 CRS who are experiencing persistent symptoms despite other treatments may be recommended nasal polyp removal as a way to improve their quality of life and reduce the risk of complications. It is important for patients to discuss their treatment options with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for their individual situation.

Timeline

Before nasal polyp removal:

  • The patient may experience symptoms of chronic sinusitis, such as nasal congestion, facial pain, postnasal drip, and reduced sense of smell.
  • The patient may undergo various treatments, such as nasal corticosteroids, antibiotics, and nasal saline irrigation, to manage their symptoms.
  • If these treatments are not effective, the patient may be referred to an ENT specialist for further evaluation.
  • The ENT specialist may recommend a CT scan to assess the extent of the sinus infection and the presence of nasal polyps.
  • Based on the CT scan findings, the ENT specialist may recommend nasal polyp removal surgery.

After nasal polyp removal:

  • The patient undergoes nasal polyp removal surgery, which may involve endoscopic sinus surgery to remove the polyps and open up the sinuses.
  • The patient may experience some discomfort and nasal congestion immediately after the surgery.
  • The patient will be prescribed medications, such as pain relievers and nasal corticosteroids, to manage post-operative symptoms.
  • The patient will follow up with their ENT specialist for post-operative care, which may include nasal saline irrigation and monitoring for any signs of infection.
  • Over time, the patient’s symptoms of chronic sinusitis should improve, with reduced nasal congestion, facial pain, and improved sense of smell.
  • The patient may also be recommended to continue using nasal corticosteroids and nasal saline irrigation to prevent the recurrence of nasal polyps.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with nasal polyp removal surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery period after nasal polyp removal surgery?
  3. Will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery, or is it an outpatient procedure?
  4. Are there any lifestyle changes I should make after the surgery to prevent recurrence of nasal polyps?
  5. What is the success rate of nasal polyp removal surgery in terms of symptom relief and preventing recurrence?
  6. Will I need to take any medications or undergo any additional treatments after the surgery?
  7. How often will I need follow-up appointments after the surgery?
  8. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before opting for nasal polyp removal surgery?
  9. How long will it take for me to notice an improvement in my symptoms after the surgery?
  10. Can you provide me with more information about the specific surgical technique you will be using for nasal polyp removal?

Reference

Authors: Blauwblomme M, Georgalas C, Ahmed S, Alobid I, Battaglia P, Castelnuovo P, Constantinidis J, Dallan I, Eeckels AS, Ferrari M, Gevaert P, Grayson J, Harvey R, Herman P, Konstantinidis I, Lubbe D, Meco C, Palmer J, Patel ZM, Strzembosz A, Verillaud B, Woodworth BA, Van Zele T. Journal: Int Forum Allergy Rhinol. 2025 Mar;15(3):303-316. doi: 10.1002/alr.23538. Epub 2025 Feb 10. PMID: 39927867