Our Summary

This research paper is about a study conducted to determine if nasal surgery could improve sleep quality in patients with and without Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), a condition causing pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep. The researchers reviewed and analyzed 19 studies involving 896 patients. They found that nasal surgery significantly improved sleep quality and reduced daytime sleepiness in patients with OSA. However, it did not significantly improve breathing during sleep. For patients without OSA, nasal surgery did not improve sleep quality.

FAQs

  1. Can nasal surgery improve sleep quality in patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)?
  2. Does nasal surgery have any effect on sleep quality in patients without Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)?
  3. Does nasal surgery improve breathing during sleep in patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient considering sinus surgery to carefully follow post-operative instructions, including keeping the nasal passages clean and avoiding activities that could increase sinus pressure, such as blowing the nose too forcefully. It’s also important to attend follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and address any concerns promptly.

Suitable For

Based on this research, sinus surgery is typically recommended for patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea who are experiencing poor sleep quality and daytime sleepiness. It may not be as beneficial for patients without OSA in terms of improving sleep quality. Sinus surgery may also be recommended for patients with chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, or other nasal conditions that are causing symptoms such as facial pain, headaches, nasal congestion, or difficulty breathing. Ultimately, the decision to recommend sinus surgery will depend on the specific symptoms and underlying conditions of each individual patient.

Timeline

Before sinus surgery:

  • Patient experiences symptoms such as chronic sinusitis, nasal congestion, facial pain, or difficulty breathing through the nose.
  • Patient consults with an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist to discuss treatment options.
  • ENT specialist conducts a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical exam, imaging tests, and possibly a nasal endoscopy.
  • Patient and ENT specialist discuss the risks and benefits of sinus surgery and develop a treatment plan.

After sinus surgery:

  • Patient undergoes sinus surgery, which may involve removing polyps, opening blocked sinuses, or correcting a deviated septum.
  • Patient may experience temporary discomfort, swelling, and congestion following surgery.
  • Patient follows post-operative instructions provided by the ENT specialist, which may include taking medication, using nasal rinses, and avoiding certain activities.
  • Patient attends follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns.
  • Over time, patient may experience improvements in symptoms such as improved breathing, reduced facial pain, and decreased sinus infections.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific type of sinus surgery is being recommended for me?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery?
  3. What is the expected recovery time and post-operative care for this procedure?
  4. How will this surgery specifically improve my sleep quality?
  5. Will this surgery also help with any other symptoms or conditions I may be experiencing?
  6. Are there any alternative treatment options for my sinus issues that I should consider?
  7. What are the success rates of this type of surgery for patients with similar conditions as mine?
  8. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes or adjustments after the surgery?
  9. How long will the effects of the surgery last, and will I need any follow-up procedures or treatments in the future?
  10. Are there any specific precautions I should take before and after the surgery to ensure the best possible outcome?

Reference

Authors: Wang M, Liu SY, Zhou B, Li Y, Cui S, Huang Q. Journal: Acta Otolaryngol. 2019 May;139(5):467-472. doi: 10.1080/00016489.2019.1575523. Epub 2019 Feb 26. PMID: 30806123