Fiberoptic sinus surgery Continued
Post Surgery and Potential Risks
Because this surgery is normally performed on an outpatient basis, it normally involves a local anesthetic and only a few hours time. Common side effects following the operation include bruising and swelling of the sinus areas, usually at a minimal level, as well as drowsiness as a result of the anesthetic. Within 72 hours though, most patients are feeling normal.
Sometimes the most difficult sinus problem to solve is continuous nasal drip. The most serious potential problem as a result of this surgery is blindness resulting from damage to the optic nerve. It should be noted, though, that the chances of this happening are extremely low.
Alternatives to This Surgery
Sometimes there are alternative surgical options to consider for your sinus problems. One common alternative option for severe sinus problems is image guided surgery. It is new in that it uses infrared technology and CAT scan information to create a map of your sinus area. This advanced technique allows for Otolaryngolical (Ear, Nose, and Throat) Surgeons to reach complex sinus passages when previous methods have proven ineffective or if the person's face has been disfigured as a result of an accident.
Another type of surgery is the “Caldwell Luc” operation. This solves chronic sinus pain by improving the drainage of the maxillary sinus, which is located just beneath the eye. Surgeons perform this operation by reaching this sinus via the upper jaw.
By Jamie Ward
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