Name of the Procedure:

Excision, Nasal Polyp(s), Simple (Also known as Nasal Polypectomy)

Summary

In this procedure, a doctor removes noncancerous growths known as polyps from the nasal passages or sinuses. These polyps can cause symptoms such as congestion, loss of smell, and sinus infections. The procedure is usually quick and can help improve breathing and reduce other symptoms.

Purpose

Condition Addressed:

• Nasal Polyps that cause breathing issues, congestion, or recurrent sinus infections.

Goals:

• To alleviate nasal obstruction and improve airflow through the nasal passages.
• To restore the sense of smell and taste.
• To reduce or eliminate symptoms such as chronic sinusitis.

Indications

• Persistent nasal blockage not relieved by medication.
• Recurrent sinus infections.
• Reduced or lost sense of smell.
• Difficulty breathing through the nose.
• Frequent nasal discharge or postnasal drip.

Preparation

• Patients may be instructed to fast for a few hours before the procedure.
• Medications, especially blood thinners, may need to be adjusted.
• A thorough medical assessment, including a nasal endoscopy or imaging studies like a CT scan, may be conducted to evaluate the extent of the polyps.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is typically given local anesthesia (numbing the nose) or general anesthesia (putting the patient to sleep).
2. A nasal endoscope, a thin, flexible tube with a camera, is inserted into the nasal passage to provide a clear view.
3. Surgical instruments or microdebriders are used to carefully remove the polyps from the nasal passages or sinuses.
4. Bleeding is controlled using cautery or packing the nose with gauze.

Duration

The procedure generally takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Setting

Performed in an outpatient surgery center, hospital, or specialized clinic.

Personnel

• ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) surgeon or other specialized surgeon.
• Nursing staff to assist during the procedure.
• An anesthesiologist if general anesthesia is used.

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: bleeding, infection, or minor swelling.
• Rare complications: changes in smell or taste, cerebrospinal fluid leak, or damage to surrounding tissues.
• Management includes postoperative antibiotics or pain medications, and follow-up visits for monitoring.

Benefits

• Improved nasal airflow and breathing.
• Reduction in chronic sinus infections and related symptoms.
• Enhanced sense of smell and taste.
• Typically realized within a few days to weeks post-procedure.

Recovery

• Patients can usually go home a few hours after the procedure.
• Rest and avoiding strenuous activities are recommended for a few days.
• Nasal saline rinses may be advised to keep the nasal passages clean.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and remove any nasal packing.

Alternatives

• Medication management, like nasal corticosteroids or antihistamines.
• Non-surgical treatments such as nasal sprays and saline rinses.
• The pros of alternatives are less invasive and may control symptoms, but they might not be as effective for large or symptomatic polyps.

Patient Experience

• During: Minimal discomfort if local anesthesia is used; general anesthesia will make the patient feel nothing during the procedure.
• After: Some nasal congestion, mild pain, or discomfort, manageable with medications.
• Postoperative care includes avoiding blowing the nose and following specific care instructions to ensure proper healing.