It’s safe to assume that we all have dealt with sinus problems at one time or another in our lives. For most of us a heavy dose of antibiotics mixed with plenty of bed rest and a little chicken noodle soup is enough to get us back on our feet within a week. However, for people suffering from severe chronic sinusitis antibiotics and bed rest aren’t enough to rid them of their sinus infection. In these instances they are normally referred to an ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat doctor) for Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery. While this surgery is quick and relatively safe, there are several endoscopic sinus surgery complications that every patient should be aware of before they undergo the surgery.

Using a tube with a tiny camera on it, an endoscope, doctors are able to perform a minimally invasive sinus surgery to help relieve the symptoms of sinusitis. By scraping away tiny bits of bone and tissue, endoscopic sinus surgery opens the ostia allowing drainage from the sinuses providing instant relief. Complications include:

OPTIC NERVE DAMAGE

Due to the close proximity of the sinuses to the eyes, a surgeon may injure muscles in the optic nerve during the procedure. While the eyes are closely monitored during surgery, the most serious complication resulting from this could end in temporary or even permanent vision loss.

BLEEDING

As with any surgery, there is a chance of excessive bleeding. The carotid artery, which is responsible with providing the head and neck with blood, runs through the sphenoid wall. While it is rare, the carotid artery can be perforated during the procedure. It can cause severe bleeding and, in extreme circumstances, hemorrhage.

CEREBROSPINAL FLUID LEAK

When the middle turbinate of the nervous system gets nicked or cut it can result in a cerebrospinal fluid leak (CSF leak). The middle turbinate is located behind the sphenoid sinuses, and this complication is relatively rare, only happening in 2% of ESS procedures (according to ehealthmd.com). While it can be relatively serious, surgeons are often able to recognize it immediately and seal the area.

NASOLACRIMAL STENOSIS

The lacrimal glands, commonly known as the tear ducts, are responsible for the secretion of tears. They can be injured during the procedure, and can result in an inability to drain properly resulting in the secretion of too many tears. This will often be treated by tear duct massage, antibiotic eye drops or surgery.

There are several endoscopic sinus surgery complications that can result due to surgery, and it should be considered a last resort for the treatment of sinusitis. If you are suffering from the symptoms of sinusitis and antibiotics aren’t delivering the results you desire, Sinus Dynamics can offer an alternative to surgical procedures.

Sinus Dynamics specializes in the treatment of sinus problems using compounded medications and cutting edge technology. We offer three different topical treatments to treat all manners of sinus infections, and have treated thousands of patients allowing them to breathe easier and live happier.

If you would like to know more about the treatment that we offer please call us now and let us talk to you about how we can help you get the treatment you deserve today. Call us at 1.877.447.4276, and one our friendly staff members will answer any questions and resolve any issues that you may have. Relief is just a call away, don’t wait any longer than you have to!

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