Our Summary

This study looked at how a particular type of sinus surgery, called endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS), affects people with a lung condition known as bronchiectasis who also have chronic sinusitis. The researchers analyzed data from 141 patients who had this surgery at their institution from 2006 onward. They used a test called the Sinonasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) to measure the patients’ sinus symptoms before and after the surgery, and they also measured the patients’ lung function.

The study found that the surgery significantly improved the patients’ sinus symptoms, but it didn’t improve their lung function. The researchers also found that the surgery had different effects on patients with cystic fibrosis compared to patients without this condition. Overall, the study suggests that the surgery can help improve sinus symptoms in people with bronchiectasis and chronic sinusitis, but it doesn’t seem to help their lung function.

FAQs

  1. What is endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) and how does it affect people with bronchiectasis and chronic sinusitis?
  2. What is the Sinonasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) used for in this study?
  3. Did the study find that endoscopic sinus surgery improved lung function in patients with bronchiectasis and chronic sinusitis?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient considering sinus surgery the following helpful tip:

“It’s important to have realistic expectations about sinus surgery. While the surgery can greatly improve your sinus symptoms, it may not necessarily improve your lung function if you have a lung condition like bronchiectasis. Make sure to discuss all possible outcomes and risks with your healthcare provider before making a decision.”

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for sinus surgery include those with chronic sinusitis that does not respond to other treatments such as medications, nasal sprays, and allergy treatments. Additionally, patients with nasal polyps, deviated septum, or structural issues in the sinuses may also be recommended for sinus surgery. In some cases, patients with certain underlying conditions such as cystic fibrosis or bronchiectasis may also benefit from sinus surgery to help improve their sinus symptoms.

Timeline

Before sinus surgery:

  • Patients may experience chronic sinusitis symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pain or pressure, headaches, and difficulty breathing through the nose
  • Patients may undergo imaging tests such as CT scans to determine the extent of the sinus disease
  • Patients may try various medications and treatments to manage their symptoms, but may not find long-lasting relief

After sinus surgery:

  • Patients will undergo endoscopic sinus surgery, where a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the nose to remove blockages and improve drainage
  • Patients may experience some discomfort and swelling in the nose and sinuses immediately after the surgery
  • In the weeks following the surgery, patients may gradually notice improvements in their sinus symptoms, with reduced congestion, pain, and improved breathing
  • Patients will have follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor their recovery and ensure the surgery was successful.

What to Ask Your Doctor

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

  1. What specific type of sinus surgery do you recommend for my condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process expected to be?
  4. Will I need to take any medications or follow a specific post-operative care plan?
  5. What are the expected outcomes of the surgery in terms of improving my sinus symptoms?
  6. Will the surgery improve my lung function if I have bronchiectasis?
  7. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies I should consider before undergoing surgery?
  8. How many of these procedures have you performed, and what is your success rate?
  9. Can you provide me with information about other patients who have had this surgery and their experiences?
  10. How long do the results of the surgery typically last?

Reference

Authors: Kanjanaumporn J, Hwang PH. Journal: Am J Rhinol Allergy. 2018 Sep;32(5):432-439. doi: 10.1177/1945892418793539. Epub 2018 Aug 16. PMID: 30112923