Name of the Procedure:

Lavage by Cannulation; Sphenoid Sinus
Common Name: Sinus Lavage
Medical Term: Sphenoid Sinus Lavage by Cannulation

Summary

Sinus lavage by cannulation is a medical procedure in which a healthcare provider cleanses the sphenoid sinus (located deep within the skull) using a saline solution. This is done by inserting a small tube (cannula) to flush out mucus, pus, or other debris.

Purpose

Medical Condition Addressed: Sinus infections, chronic sinusitis, and sinus blockages. Goals/Outcomes: To remove blockages, reduce infection, and alleviate symptoms such as headaches, facial pain, and nasal congestion.

Indications

Symptoms: Chronic sinus pain, recurring sinus infections, nasal congestion, and postnasal drip. Patient Criteria: Patients who have not responded to other treatments (e.g., antibiotics, nasal sprays) and exhibit persistent symptoms.

Preparation

Pre-Procedure Instructions:

• Fasting may be required for a few hours before the procedure.

• Adjustments to medication may be necessary; patients should inform their provider about any current medications.

  Diagnostic Tests:

• Nasal endoscopy or imaging studies like CT scans to confirm the need for the procedure.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned comfortably, often lying down.
2. Local anesthesia or sedation is administered to minimize discomfort.
3. Using an endoscope, the healthcare provider locates the sphenoid sinus opening.
4. A small cannula is carefully inserted into the sphenoid sinus.
5. Sterile saline solution is flushed through the cannula to cleanse the sinus cavity.
6. The process is repeated as necessary to ensure thorough lavage.

Tools/Equipment: Endoscope, cannula, saline solution, suction devices. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia or mild sedation.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30-45 minutes.

Setting

Performed in an outpatient clinic, hospital, or surgical center.

Personnel

The procedure is usually carried out by an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist with the support of nurses and, if necessary, an anesthesiologist.

Risks and Complications

Common Risks: Discomfort, mild bleeding, nasal congestion, swelling. Rare Risks: Infection, damage to the surrounding tissue, cerebrospinal fluid leak. Complications Management: Antibiotics for infections, nasal packing for bleeding, and further medical intervention for more severe complications.

Benefits

Expected benefits include relief from sinus-related symptoms and reduced frequency of infections. Improvements are often noticed within a few days post-procedure.

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care: Patients might need to use saline nasal sprays and avoid strenuous activities. Recovery Time: Generally, a few days to a week, with follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing.

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Medications like antibiotics and nasal steroids.

• Home treatments: steam inhalation, nasal irrigation with a neti pot.

  Pros and Cons: Lavage offers immediate relief and is effective for stubborn sinus issues but involves minor surgery risks; medications are less invasive but may not always be effective.

Patient Experience

During Procedure: Patients may feel pressure or mild discomfort but should not experience significant pain due to local anesthesia. After Procedure: Some tenderness and mild congestion are common; over-the-counter pain relievers may be recommended to manage any discomfort.