Nasal Polyp Removal
Nasal Polyp Removal
ENDOSCOPIC PROCEDURE
Nasal polyp removal is an endoscopic procedure that can be performed in the office or the operating room, where the surgeon uses a special nasal camera to guide small instruments in removing the polyps. This removes the blockages in the nasal passageway and improves sinus symptoms.
Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps are benign overgrowth of the inner layer of the nasal tissue. This causes blockage of secretions, leading to sinus symptoms.
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Symptoms & Indications
Some signs that may indicate a need for nasal polyp removal include:
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Chronic nasal congestion
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Decreased sense of smell or taste
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Frequent sinus infections, read more about sinusitis here
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Facial pain or pressure
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Postnasal drip
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Snoring or sleep disturbances
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Breathing difficulties
Nasal Polyp Growth
The exact cause of nasal polyps is not fully understood, but several factors contribute to their growth:
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Chronic Inflammation. The most significant factor in the development of nasal polyps is chronic inflammation of the nasal and sinus mucosa (lining). This inflammation can be due to various causes, including allergies, infections, and irritants like cigarette smoke or pollution. The inflammation leads to the formation of small, grape-like clusters of tissue that eventually develop into nasal polyps.
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Allergies. Allergies trigger an immune response in the nasal and sinus tissues, leading to chronic inflammation. Read more about allergies here.
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Asthma. There is a known association between asthma and nasal polyps. Individuals with asthma are at a higher risk of developing nasal polyps, and the presence of nasal polyps can worsen asthma symptoms.
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Genetic Factors. There may be a genetic predisposition to developing nasal polyps. If you have a family history of nasal polyps or a related condition like asthma or allergies, you may be more susceptible.
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Environmental Irritants. Exposure to environmental irritants, such as industrial chemicals, occupational dust, or pollution, may increase the risk of developing nasal polyps in some individuals.
Methods
Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)
This minimally invasive procedure is often the preferred method for removing nasal polyps. It involves the use of an endoscope, a thin tube with a camera and light, to guide the surgeon in removing the polyps. The surgeon can view the nasal passages and sinus cavities in real-time and precisely remove the polyps using specialized instruments. FESS is associated with a shorter recovery time compared to open surgery.
Sinusotomy
In some cases, the surgeon may perform a sinusotomy to open up the natural drainage pathways of the sinuses. This helps prevent the recurrence of polyps by allowing for better sinus drainage and reducing the chances of polyp regrowth
Polypectomy
In certain situations, smaller polyps may be removed using a polypectomy procedure. This involves the use of special instruments to grasp and remove the polyps through the nostrils. Polypectomy is suitable for smaller polyps that are easily accessible.
In-office Procedures
Some smaller polyps may be removed in an outpatient setting during an office visit. This can include procedures like suctioning or laser ablation, which can remove or reduce polyp size.
Patient Recovery
After nasal polyp surgery, you may suffer slight pain and bleeding in your nose. These symptoms should go away in a week, although you may notice blood while blowing your nose for up to a month.
You will most likely continue to undergo nasal saline irrigations and may be given steroids throughout this period. Return to your doctor for a check-up to ensure that your recuperation is progressing as planned.