Our Summary

This research looked at developing a better way to understand how patients feel after going through a type of nose surgery known as endoscopic endonasal surgery (EES). The researchers created a new questionnaire, the Endoscopic Endonasal Sinus and Skull Base Surgery Questionnaire (EES-Q), to measure how the surgery affects patients’ quality of life.

300 patients took part in the study, filling out the EES-Q before and after their surgery. The researchers tested the questionnaire and used it to identify key areas of health that were affected by the surgery.

They found that the questionnaire effectively measured three main areas: physical health, mental health, and social life. The final version of the questionnaire had 30 questions and was found to be reliable.

The EES-Q is unique in that it also looks at how surgery affects patients’ social lives, in addition to their physical and mental health. This could help doctors and nurses provide better, more personalized care to patients after their surgery, by understanding their specific needs and how the surgery has affected them in all aspects of their life.

FAQs

  1. What is the purpose of the Endoscopic Endonasal Sinus and Skull Base Surgery Questionnaire (EES-Q)?
  2. How many patients participated in the study and what was the outcome?
  3. How does the EES-Q help healthcare providers improve post-surgery care for patients?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about sinus surgery is to follow all post-operative care instructions carefully, including taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and avoiding activities that could potentially disrupt the healing process. It is important to communicate any concerns or unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly to ensure the best possible outcome. Additionally, maintaining good nasal hygiene, such as using saline rinses as directed, can help promote healing and prevent complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended sinus surgery include those with chronic sinusitis that does not respond to other treatments, nasal polyps, a deviated septum, sinus tumors, recurrent sinus infections, or structural issues in the sinuses that are causing symptoms such as difficulty breathing or chronic sinus pressure. These patients may experience symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pain or pressure, headaches, post-nasal drip, or loss of smell. Sinus surgery may be recommended when other treatments such as medications, nasal sprays, or sinus rinses have not been effective in managing symptoms.

Timeline

Before sinus surgery, patients typically experience symptoms such as chronic sinusitis, nasal congestion, facial pain, headaches, and difficulty breathing. These symptoms can significantly impact their quality of life and daily activities.

After sinus surgery, patients may experience some discomfort, swelling, and congestion in the days following the procedure. However, as they heal, they often notice improvements in their symptoms, such as reduced nasal congestion, improved breathing, decreased facial pain, and fewer sinus infections.

In the weeks and months following sinus surgery, patients may gradually return to their normal activities and experience an overall improvement in their quality of life. Regular follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider are essential to monitor their progress and address any concerns.

What to Ask Your Doctor

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

  1. What is the purpose of the surgery and how will it benefit me?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery?
  3. What is the recovery process like and how long will it take?
  4. Will I need to take time off from work or make any lifestyle adjustments during my recovery?
  5. Will I need any follow-up appointments or additional treatments after the surgery?
  6. How will the surgery affect my quality of life, including my physical, mental, and social well-being?
  7. Are there any alternative treatment options available besides surgery?
  8. How experienced are you in performing this type of surgery?
  9. Can you provide me with information about outcomes and success rates for patients who have undergone this surgery?
  10. Are there any specific instructions or precautions I should follow before and after the surgery to ensure a successful recovery?

Reference

Authors: Ten Dam E, Feijen RA, van den Berge MJC, Hoving EW, Kuijlen JM, van der Laan BFAM, Vermeulen KM, Krabbe PFM, Korsten-Meijer AGW. Journal: Int Forum Allergy Rhinol. 2017 Nov;7(11):1076-1084. doi: 10.1002/alr.22000. Epub 2017 Aug 23. PMID: 28834622