Endoscopic sinus surgery
Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (pronunciation: en-doh-SCOP-ic SY-nus SUR-ger-ee) is a surgical procedure used to remove blockages in the sinuses for patients suffering from sinusitis or other related conditions. The procedure is less invasive than traditional sinus surgery, and recovery time is generally shorter.
Etymology
The term "Endoscopic Sinus Surgery" is derived from the words "endoscope," a medical device used to view the internal parts of the body, and "sinus surgery," a procedure to correct sinus problems.
Procedure
During an Endoscopic Sinus Surgery, the surgeon inserts an endoscope into the nose, providing an inside view of the sinuses. Specialized instruments are then used to remove the obstructive tissues. The goal of the surgery is to enlarge the sinus openings to improve drainage and ventilation, thus reducing the frequency and severity of sinus infections.
Related Terms
- Sinusitis: An inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses.
- Endoscope: A medical device used to view the internal parts of the body.
- Sinuses: Hollow spaces in the bones around the nose that produce mucus, which drains into the nose.
- Nasal Polyps: Soft, painless, noncancerous growths on the lining of your nasal passages or sinuses.
- Deviated Septum: A condition in which the nasal septum -- the bone and cartilage that divide the nasal cavity of the nose in half -- is significantly off center, or crooked, making breathing difficult.
Risks and Complications
Like any surgery, Endoscopic Sinus Surgery carries potential risks and complications. These may include bleeding, infection, and damage to surrounding structures such as the eyes or brain. However, these complications are rare and the procedure is generally considered safe.
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