Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) is an increasingly common procedure used to treat chronic sinusitis, also known as chronic rhinosinusitis, or CRS. Sinusitis causes inflammation, congestion, excess mucus production, and pain around the face. When it lasts 12 weeks or longer, it is considered chronic.

Even with treatment, chronic sinusitis can persist, causing much discomfort. At this point, many patients become good candidates for surgery. NCSH is a specialty surgical hospital offering advanced, minimally invasive procedures like FESS. The technology our sinus specialists use leads to better patient outcomes, quicker recovery times, and very high patient satisfaction.

What Is Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)?

FESS is a minimally invasive sinus surgery used to treat nasal and sinus issues. Chronic sinusitis is one of the most common reasons patients undergo FESS.

An endoscope is a narrow, rigid tube with a camera and light at one end. The surgeon inserts it through the nasal cavity and uses very small instruments to perform the necessary procedures in the sinuses or nose. Using the endoscope means they do not have to make any external incisions.

The functional aspect of FESS means the procedure is designed to restore normal function to the nose and sinuses. For instance, the procedures can be used for nasal polyps removal to open up the nasal passage and allow for more functional breathing and mucus drainage.

Who Can Benefit From FESS?

Chronic sinusitis occurs when the sinuses are inflamed and swollen for weeks, even with treatment. It’s a common reason patients end up needing sinus surgery. While the underlying cause is not necessarily clear, colds and other infections, nasal polyps, or structural abnormalities can contribute to or worsen chronic sinusitis.

Many patients with this condition can benefit from FESS. An ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist can help you decide if you’re a good candidate for the procedure. Generally, if you have chronic sinusitis, repeated sinus infections, or nasal polyps that cause symptoms and can’t be resolved with conservative care, your doctor may recommend FESS.

What Happens During the Procedure?

FESS is typically an outpatient procedure, so you can go home the same day. You’ll be put under general anesthesia, so you won’t feel anything during the surgery. They may also use a decongestant to clear your sinuses.

The surgeon will insert an endoscope into one nostril of your nose. The light and camera magnifies the interior of your nose and sinuses, so they can see what they’re doing.

With the endoscope guiding their movements, the surgeon will use one or more procedures to address the underlying problem. During an ethmoidectomy, they remove ethmoid sinus cells, which might be diseased or infected. During a maxillary antrostomy, they widen the opening of the maxillary sinus to improve drainage.

The surgeon may use nasal packing after sinus surgery to aid your recovery. This step isn’t always necessary.

Are There Any Risks of FESS?

FESS is a low-risk and minimally invasive procedure, but complications can occur with any type of surgery. Current technologies allow surgeons to be very precise, but there is a low chance of damage, which can lead to:

• Heavy nosebleeds
• Loss of sense of smell
• Watery eyes
• Double vision
• Cerebrospinal fluid leak

Studies show these complications are very rare in FESS. Heavy bleeding is the most common complication.

Why Connect With an NCSH Sinus Specialist?

NCSH is a specialty hospital, meaning our surgeons are experts in their fields. Patients here benefit from their expertise, a one-to-four nurse-to-patient ratio, and a safer and more personalized experience than in a more crowded hospital.

Our ear, nose, and throat (ENT) physicians work with the latest technologies. For example, they use fiber-optic endoscopes and image-guided sinus surgery technology for greater precision and no external scarring. Larger hospitals and facilities for general surgery cannot offer the same expertise, technology, or personalized care.

If you’re interested in learning about solutions to your ongoing sinus problems, reach out to an NCSH ENT physician for an evaluation and treatment options.