Nasal polyps are tissue swellings within the nose
Nasal polyps can significantly affect quality of life for many individuals. They occur as part of a spectrum of a condition called chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). They frequently run in families and can also be associated with conditions such as asthma.
Left untreated, symptoms include nasal blockage, nasal discharge and catarrh, reduced or absent sense of smell, sneezing and facial pressure. Nasal polyps are not typically painful and do not tend to bleed. Chronic rhinosinusitis and nasal polyps can be managed through a combination of nasal steroid drops, nasal irrigation and sometimes antibiotics.
ENT surgeons with a specialist interest in rhinology and sinus surgery are ideally placed to manage nasal polyps but in patients who have concurrent asthma, a chest physician and GP would also need to be involved.
For many patients who do not improve with medical management alone, endoscopic sinus surgery may become necessary. This is to improve the sinus drainage pathways, to remove the polyps and to enable medications to get in to the sinuses more effectively. It is important to note that sinus surgery itself is usually an adjunct to medical management and the majority of patients will need saline nasal irrigation and nasal steroids in the long-term to help keep the polyps at bay.
The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for a personalised evaluation and treatment plan.
Symptoms of nasal polyps may include persistent nasal congestion, a reduced sense of smell or taste, facial pain or pressure, and frequent sinus infections. A healthcare provider can confirm their presence through a physical examination or imaging studies.
Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination of the nasal passages with an endoscope, along with a review of the patient’s symptoms and medical history. Imaging studies like CT scans may be recommended for detailed visualisation.
Nasal polyp surgery is usually performed under general anaesthesia. An endoscope is used to remove polyps and improve airflow and sinus drainage. Recovery times vary based on individual circumstances.
Nasal Polyp Surgery Procedure Guide by My Nose London
Understanding the process of nasal polyp surgery, often referred to as endoscopic sinus surgery, can help ease any concerns you might have. This step-by-step guide will walk you through what to expect during your procedure.
- Anesthesia: Before the surgery begins, anesthesia will be administered. Most commonly, general anesthesia is used, meaning you will be fully asleep and unaware during the procedure. In certain cases, local anesthesia with sedation might be used, allowing you to remain awake but free from pain.
- Insertion of the Endoscope: Once the anesthesia takes effect, your surgeon at My Nose London will insert a small, flexible instrument called an endoscope into your nostrils. The endoscope contains a light and camera, enabling the surgeon to clearly view the inside of your sinuses and nasal passages.
- Identification of Polyps: Using the endoscope, the surgeon will locate any nasal polyps. These polyps are typically soft, noncancerous growths that develop from the lining of the sinuses or nasal passages. While they are usually painless, they can cause blockage or discomfort.
- Identification of Polyps: Using the endoscope, the surgeon will locate any nasal polyps. These polyps are typically soft, noncancerous growths that develop from the lining of the sinuses or nasal passages. While they are usually painless, they can cause blockage or discomfort.
- Repair and Cleaning: After removing the polyps, the surgeon may perform minor repairs to the affected sinus areas. This might include reducing inflammation or enhancing sinus drainage. Once repairs are made, the surgeon will clean the area, ensuring any leftover polyp tissue or debris is removed.
- Completion of Surgery: Once the area is cleaned, the endoscope will be gently removed. The procedure typically lasts between 1 and 2 hours, depending on the complexity and size of the polyps.
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Recovery: Following the surgery, you'll be transferred to a recovery room where you'll be closely monitored as the anesthesia wears off. It’s normal to feel groggy or disoriented as you come out of sedation. Rest assured, the medical team will be there to assist you during this time.
This is a general overview of the procedure. Your experience may vary depending on your unique circumstances and the specific approach taken by your surgeon at My Nose London. Always follow the advice and instructions given by your healthcare team for the most accurate preparation.
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