Our Summary

This research paper looks at the risk and type of eye-related complications that can happen during surgery for chronic rhinosinusitis, a long-term inflammation of the sinuses and nasal passages. They studied 1,658 past patients who had minimally invasive surgery (endoscopic sinus surgery) for this condition.

They found that about a third of the patients needed a second surgery and only about 10% were operated on in their department previously. Complications happened in about 0.66% of the patients overall. Minor complications, like bruising around the eye, happened in 0.3% of the patients. Serious complications, such as injury to the tear duct, happened in 0.06% of the patients. Very serious complications, including behind-the-eye bleeding, optic nerve injury, and extraocular muscle injury, occurred in 0.3% of the patients.

The researchers concluded that eye-related complications from this type of nasal surgery are rare, and the chance of serious complications that cause permanent disabilities is less than 0.3%. They found that the core factors that increase the risk of complications are the extent of the disease, having had this type of surgery before, and being on blood-thinning medication at the same time.

FAQs

  1. What is the risk of eye-related complications during surgery for chronic rhinosinusitis?
  2. What factors can increase the risk of complications during endoscopic sinus surgery?
  3. What percentage of patients needed a second surgery for chronic rhinosinusitis?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about sinus surgery is to follow all post-operative care instructions carefully, including taking prescribed medications, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments. It is also important to communicate any concerns or unusual symptoms, such as severe pain, vision changes, or excessive bleeding, to your healthcare provider immediately. Taking these precautions can help minimize the risk of complications and promote a successful recovery.

Suitable For

Patients with chronic rhinosinusitis who have not responded well to other treatments, such as medications or nasal sprays, are typically recommended sinus surgery. Additionally, patients with nasal polyps, a deviated septum, or structural abnormalities in the sinuses may also benefit from sinus surgery. Patients who experience recurrent sinus infections, difficulty breathing through the nose, or chronic sinus headaches may also be candidates for sinus surgery. Ultimately, the decision to undergo sinus surgery is made on a case-by-case basis by a healthcare provider after a thorough evaluation of the patient’s symptoms and medical history.

Timeline

Before sinus surgery:

  • Patient meets with an ENT specialist to discuss symptoms and treatment options
  • ENT specialist may recommend imaging tests or a nasal endoscopy to diagnose the condition
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative assessments and tests to ensure they are healthy enough for surgery
  • Patient may need to stop taking certain medications or make lifestyle changes before surgery

After sinus surgery:

  • Patient is monitored closely in the recovery room for any immediate complications
  • Patient may experience pain, swelling, and discomfort in the days following surgery
  • Patient will have follow-up appointments with the ENT specialist to monitor healing and address any concerns
  • Patient may need to take antibiotics or other medications to prevent infection
  • Patient may need to make changes to their daily routine or diet to aid in healing and prevent complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about sinus surgery include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with sinus surgery, particularly those related to the eyes?
  2. How common are eye-related complications during sinus surgery, and what steps will be taken to minimize the risk?
  3. Are there any specific factors in my medical history or current medications that may increase the risk of eye-related complications during surgery?
  4. How experienced is the surgical team in performing endoscopic sinus surgery, and what is their track record with regards to eye-related complications?
  5. What symptoms should I watch out for after surgery that may indicate a potential eye-related complication, and when should I seek medical attention?
  6. Will additional precautions be taken during surgery to protect the eyes, such as using specialized equipment or techniques?
  7. Are there any alternative treatment options for my condition that may carry a lower risk of eye-related complications?
  8. How long is the recovery period after sinus surgery, and what can I do to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications?
  9. Will I need to follow up with an eye specialist or undergo any additional tests or procedures to monitor for potential eye-related issues post-surgery?
  10. Can you provide me with any additional resources or information about sinus surgery and potential complications, particularly those involving the eyes?

Reference

Authors: Seredyka-Burduk M, Burduk PK, Wierzchowska M, Kaluzny B, Malukiewicz G. Journal: Braz J Otorhinolaryngol. 2017 May-Jun;83(3):318-323. doi: 10.1016/j.bjorl.2016.04.006. Epub 2016 May 4. PMID: 27233691