Our Summary

This research paper looks at how different types of surgery can help people who have osteitis in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Osteitis in CRS is a condition where the bones in the sinuses become inflamed, which can make the disease worse. Two types of surgery were compared - radical endoscopic sinus surgery (RESS) and functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS).

The researchers analyzed the data from 51 patients who had been diagnosed with osteitis in CRS through a CT scan. They divided these patients into two groups based on the type of surgery they had: 24 had RESS and 27 had FESS. They then used a variety of tests to measure the patients’ symptoms and outcomes both before and after surgery.

The results showed that both types of surgery were successful in reducing symptoms a year after surgery. However, the RESS group showed a greater reduction in inflammation of the sinuses compared to the FESS group. Therefore, the study suggests that RESS may be a more effective treatment for patients with osteitis in CRS.

FAQs

  1. What is osteitis in chronic rhinosinusitis and how can it be treated?
  2. What is the difference between radical endoscopic sinus surgery (RESS) and functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS)?
  3. According to the research, which type of surgery is more effective in reducing inflammation in patients with osteitis in CRS?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient considering sinus surgery that RESS may be more effective in reducing inflammation of the sinuses compared to FESS for those with osteitis in chronic rhinosinusitis. It is important to discuss the benefits and risks of each type of surgery with your doctor to determine the best treatment option for you.

Suitable For

Typically, patients who are recommended sinus surgery are those who have chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) that does not respond to other treatments such as medications or nasal sprays. Additionally, patients with severe symptoms such as nasal polyps, sinus infections, or structural issues in the sinuses may also be recommended for surgery. Patients with osteitis in CRS, as mentioned in the research paper, may also benefit from sinus surgery to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms. Ultimately, the decision to undergo sinus surgery is made on a case-by-case basis by a healthcare provider after considering the individual’s symptoms, medical history, and response to other treatments.

Timeline

Before sinus surgery:

  • Patients may have been experiencing chronic rhinosinusitis symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pain, headaches, and difficulty breathing.
  • Patients may have undergone various treatments such as antibiotics, nasal corticosteroids, and nasal saline irrigation without significant improvement.
  • Patients may have undergone a CT scan to confirm the diagnosis of osteitis in CRS.
  • Patients may have been evaluated by an ENT specialist to determine the best course of treatment, which may include surgery.

After sinus surgery:

  • Patients will undergo either radical endoscopic sinus surgery (RESS) or functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) to treat osteitis in CRS.
  • Patients may experience some discomfort, swelling, and congestion in the days following surgery.
  • Patients will have follow-up appointments with their ENT specialist to monitor their recovery and assess their symptoms.
  • Over time, patients should experience a reduction in symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pain, and headaches.
  • A year after surgery, patients may undergo tests to assess the effectiveness of the surgery, with the possibility of seeing a greater reduction in inflammation in the sinuses in the RESS group compared to the FESS group.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with sinus surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery period after sinus surgery?
  3. Will I need to take any medication or follow a specific post-operative care routine?
  4. How long will it take for me to see improvement in my symptoms after surgery?
  5. Are there any alternative treatment options for my condition besides surgery?
  6. How often will I need to follow up with you after surgery?
  7. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes after surgery to prevent a recurrence of my symptoms?
  8. How long do the effects of sinus surgery typically last?
  9. Are there any specific factors in my case that make one type of surgery more suitable for me than the other?
  10. Can you provide me with more information about the specific techniques and procedures involved in the surgery you recommend for me?

Reference

Authors: Wang M, Zhou B, Li Y, Cui S, Huang Q. Journal: ORL J Otorhinolaryngol Relat Spec. 2021;83(4):234-241. doi: 10.1159/000513528. Epub 2021 Mar 17. PMID: 33730731