What is endoscopic surgery of the paranasal sinuses?
Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is the standard of care for chronic sinusitis. The operation is performed through the nasal passages under endoscopic guidance and does not require external incisions. The goal of the surgical intervention is to restore normal sinus drainage. Once mucus outflow is restored, inflammation subsides and the mucous membrane gradually recovers.
Removal of growths in the ENT organs at Helyos Medical Center is also performed predominantly using a minimally invasive approach.
Which sinus conditions require surgical treatment?
An operation is recommended when conservative therapy fails to produce a lasting result. The main indications are:
- chronic sinusitis (lasting more than 12 weeks);
- recurrent acute sinusitis (4 or more flare-ups per year);
- nasal polyposis with impaired breathing and sense of smell;
- cysts and benign growths in the sinuses;
- anatomical abnormalities that impede normal sinus drainage.
Before the operation, an AI-assisted sinus CT scan is mandatory — this method makes it possible to accurately assess the extent of the surgical intervention and the condition of all sinus groups.
Advantages of endoscopic surgery over classic surgery
Open sinus operations through incisions under the lip or on the face are performed extremely rarely today — the endoscopic approach is now the priority. The difference for the patient is tangible: a smaller-scale surgical intervention, faster recovery, less discomfort.
With the endoscopic method, the surgeon accesses the operative field through the nasal passages — without external incisions. Most patients go home on the day of the operation, and after 1–2 weeks return to their normal routine. The open method requires several days in hospital, and recovery stretches over 3–4 weeks or longer.
One example of surgical sinus endoscopy is maxillary sinusotomy. This minimally invasive operation is aimed at widening the natural openings of the paranasal sinuses in order to restore drainage and ventilation.
How is endoscopic sinus surgery performed?
The operation is performed under general anesthesia. Access to the operative field is achieved through the nasal passages. If polyps are present, endoscopic polypotomy is additionally performed. Duration is from 30 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on the extent.
Rehabilitation and restoration of nasal breathing
In the first days after the operation, congestion and moderate discomfort are possible. Most patients notice improved breathing as early as 1–2 weeks. Full recovery of the mucous membrane takes up to 6 weeks.
Important! During the rehabilitation period, it is necessary to regularly rinse the nose with saline solutions and avoid overheating, physical exertion, and air travel for the first 2 weeks after the operation.
Treatment at Helyos Medical Center
Endoscopic sinus operations at Helyos Medical Center are performed by experienced ENT surgeons. Our own diagnostic center, equipped with AI-assisted CT, allows full preoperative diagnostics to be carried out without a referral to another facility.
Timely consultation with a doctor for chronic nasal congestion and frequent sinusitis is an opportunity to restore health and avoid serious complications. You can book a consultation, find out the price of the operation, or check how much treatment costs in your case by calling +380670000150 or via the form on the website.
