What is sphenoidotomy and which sphenoid sinus conditions does it treat?
The sphenoid sinus is a paired sinus located deep in the base of the skull, behind the nasal cavity. Because of its anatomical location, it responds less well than other sinuses to conservative treatment for chronic inflammation. Sphenoidotomy is the widening of the natural opening of the sphenoid sinus to ensure normal outflow of its contents. The operation is performed using the endoscopic method — through the nasal passages, without external incisions.
Symptoms of sphenoid sinus inflammation
The manifestations of the condition can be nonspecific and vary in severity. The main signs include:
- a pressing or dull headache in the occipital and parietal area, worsening when bending forward;
- pain deep in the nose and behind the eyes;
- a sensation of mucus dripping down the back of the throat;
- nasal congestion and reduced sense of smell.
Consulting a doctor for chronic headaches and symptoms of sinusitis is the first step toward accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
When is endoscopic sphenoidotomy required?
Surgical treatment is recommended when prolonged antibiotic therapy and sinus rinsing fail to produce a lasting result. Indications for the operation also include cysts, fungal balls, and other growths in the sphenoid sinus that cannot be resolved conservatively.
In cases of concurrent involvement of the maxillary sinuses, Helyos Medical Center simultaneously performs endoscopic maxillary sinusotomy — this makes it possible to address several problems within a single surgical intervention.
How is sphenoid sinus surgery performed?
The operation is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon accesses the sphenoid sinus through the nasal cavity, widens its opening, and removes pathological contents if necessary.
If polyps are present in the nasal cavity, endoscopic polypotomy is performed during the operation — removal of polypous tissue that impedes normal sinus drainage.
The surgical intervention lasts 30–60 minutes. Most patients go home on the day of the operation or the following day, can return to work after 5–7 days, and full recovery takes 4–6 weeks.
Recovery after endoscopic surgery
In the first days after the operation, nasal congestion and moderate discomfort are possible. Regular saline rinses speed up cleansing of the mucous membrane and prevent crust formation.
Important! During the rehabilitation period, it is necessary to avoid air travel, physical exertion, and overheating for 2 weeks. Blow your nose gently, one nostril at a time.
If tumors or cysts are detected, minimally invasive removal of growths in the ENT organs is available at Helyos Medical Center.
Treatment at Helyos Medical Center
Endoscopic sphenoidotomy at Helyos Medical Center is performed by experienced ENT surgeons using modern equipment. Preoperative diagnostics (sinus CT and endoscopic examination) are carried out at our own diagnostic center. You can book a consultation, check the price of sphenoidotomy, or find out how much treatment costs in your case by calling +380670000150 or via the online form on the website.
