Our Summary

This research paper discusses the effect of using a hyaluronan nasal dressing after endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). Hyaluronan is a substance that is present in our bodies and it is thought to help with the healing process.

The researchers carried out a thorough review of medical literature and data from various trials to determine whether this type of dressing actually improves healing after this type of surgery.

The research involved data from four different trials and a total of 352 patients.

They found that compared to the standard nasal dressings, hyaluronan dressings did help to speed up the healing process and reduce swelling. However, they didn’t seem to have any effect on other complications, such as the formation of scar tissue (synechia), crust, and infection.

In simpler terms, this research suggests that hyaluronan nasal dressings could be beneficial in helping patients heal faster and experience less swelling after sinus surgery. However, it doesn’t appear to help with other post-surgery issues.

FAQs

  1. What is hyaluronan and how does it assist in the healing process after endoscopic sinus surgery?
  2. How does the use of hyaluronan nasal dressings after sinus surgery compare to standard nasal dressings?
  3. Does the use of hyaluronan dressings after sinus surgery have any effect on other post-surgery complications such as scar tissue formation, crust, and infection?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient that using a hyaluronan nasal dressing after sinus surgery can help speed up the healing process and reduce swelling. However, it may not necessarily prevent other complications such as scar tissue formation, crust, and infection. It is important to follow post-operative care instructions and attend follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and recovery.

Suitable For

Sinus surgery is typically recommended for patients who have chronic sinusitis that does not respond to other treatments, such as medications or nasal sprays. Patients with severe nasal polyps, a deviated septum, or other structural issues in the nose that are causing sinus problems may also benefit from sinus surgery.

Patients who have recurrent sinus infections, sinus headaches, facial pain or pressure, or difficulty breathing through the nose may also be candidates for sinus surgery. Additionally, patients with sinus tumors or other growths in the sinuses may require surgery to remove them.

Overall, sinus surgery is usually recommended for patients who have tried other treatments without success and continue to experience chronic sinus symptoms that impact their quality of life. It is important for patients to discuss their symptoms and treatment options with their healthcare provider to determine if sinus surgery is the best course of action for them.

Timeline

Before sinus surgery:

  1. Patient experiences chronic sinusitis symptoms such as facial pain, pressure, congestion, and difficulty breathing.
  2. Patient consults with an ENT specialist who recommends sinus surgery to alleviate symptoms.
  3. Patient undergoes pre-operative assessments and preparations for surgery.

After sinus surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) to remove blockages in the sinuses and improve airflow.
  2. Post-surgery, patient experiences swelling, congestion, and discomfort in the nasal passages.
  3. Patient may be prescribed medications to manage pain and prevent infection.
  4. Patient may need to use nasal dressings to aid in healing and reduce swelling.
  5. Research suggests that hyaluronan nasal dressings can help speed up the healing process and reduce swelling post-surgery.
  6. Patient follows up with their ENT specialist for post-operative care and monitoring of healing progress.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about sinus surgery and the use of hyaluronan nasal dressings include:

  1. What are the potential benefits of using a hyaluronan nasal dressing after my sinus surgery?
  2. Are there any potential risks or side effects associated with using hyaluronan nasal dressings?
  3. How soon after my surgery will the hyaluronan dressing be applied, and how long will it need to stay in place?
  4. Will the use of hyaluronan nasal dressings affect my recovery time or overall healing process?
  5. Are there any other post-surgery complications that hyaluronan dressings may not help with?
  6. How will I know if the hyaluronan dressing is working effectively for me?
  7. Are there any specific instructions or precautions I should follow while using the hyaluronan nasal dressing?
  8. Will I need to schedule any follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process while using the hyaluronan dressing?
  9. Are there any alternative treatments or dressings that could be used instead of hyaluronan?
  10. How does the cost of using hyaluronan nasal dressings compare to other options, and will my insurance cover this treatment?

Reference

Authors: Chen J, Wang X, Chen L, Liu J. Journal: Am J Rhinol Allergy. 2017 Jul 14;31(4):256-259. doi: 10.2500/ajra.2017.31.4438. Epub 2017 Jun 14. PMID: 28639541