What Is the Role of ENT Surgery in Treating Nasal Polyps?

Nasal polyps are soft, painless, and non-cancerous growths that form in the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses. These polyps are often linked to inflammation from conditions such as asthma, chronic sinus infections, allergies, or immune disorders. They can lead to symptoms like nasal obstruction, reduced sense of smell, recurrent infections, and sinus pressure. While medical treatments can help reduce the size of polyps, in some cases, surgical intervention is necessary to provide lasting relief. This is where ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) surgery plays a crucial role.

When Is Surgery Needed for Nasal Polyps?

Medical management, typically involving corticosteroid nasal sprays or oral medications, is often the first line of treatment for nasal polyps. However, surgery becomes an option when:

• Medications fail to alleviate symptoms: If nasal polyps persist or recur despite aggressive medical treatment.
• Severe symptoms affect quality of life: Patients experiencing significant nasal obstruction, difficulty breathing, frequent sinus infections, or loss of smell may benefit from surgery.
• Complications arise: In cases where nasal polyps cause complications, such as recurrent sinus infections or structural nasal blockages, surgery is recommended.

Types of ENT Surgeries for Nasal Polyps

1. Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: The most common surgical approach for treating nasal polyps is endoscopic sinus surgery. This procedure is minimally invasive and involves using a thin tube with a camera (an endoscope) to access the nasal passages and sinuses. The surgeon uses specialized tools to remove the polyps and clear any blockages in the sinuses. The advantages of endoscopic surgery include less tissue damage, shorter recovery times, and reduced scarring.

2. Polypectomy: In some cases, a simpler procedure known as a polypectomy is performed. This involves removing the polyps directly from the nasal passages using a small suction device or a microdebrider. A polypectomy is usually performed in an outpatient setting and offers immediate relief from symptoms, but there is a higher chance of polyp recurrence compared to endoscopic sinus surgery.

3. Revision Surgery: In patients who have undergone previous surgeries for nasal polyps but experience recurrence, revision surgery may be needed. This involves reopening the sinus cavities to remove any new polyps and address underlying inflammation. ENT specialists aim to preserve as much normal tissue as possible during revision surgery.

Benefits of ENT Surgery for Nasal Polyps

1. Improved Breathing: One of the most immediate benefits of surgery is the restoration of normal airflow through the nasal passages, which greatly improves breathing.

2. Enhanced Sense of Smell and Taste: Many patients report an improved sense of smell and taste after nasal polyp surgery, which is often impaired by polyp growths.

3. Reduced Frequency of Sinus Infections: By clearing blockages and improving sinus drainage, ENT surgery can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of sinus infections.

4. Long-Term Relief: Although nasal polyps can recur, surgical intervention provides long-term relief, especially when followed by continued medical management.

Post-Surgery Care and Prevention of Recurrence

Following surgery, maintaining proper nasal care is critical to prevent the recurrence of nasal polyps. ENT surgeons typically recommend:

• Nasal irrigation: Using saline sprays or rinses to keep the nasal passages clear and reduce inflammation.
• Continued medication: Corticosteroid nasal sprays may still be prescribed to manage inflammation and prevent regrowth of polyps.
• Regular follow-up: Routine check-ups with an ENT specialist help monitor for any signs of recurrence and ensure that the nasal passages remain clear.

Risks and Considerations

While ENT surgery for nasal polyps is generally safe, it is important to understand potential risks:

• Bleeding: As with any surgery, there is a risk of bleeding, though it is usually minimal.
• Infection: Post-operative infections are rare but can occur, requiring antibiotic treatment.
• Polyp recurrence: Despite surgical intervention, polyps can return over time, particularly in patients with underlying chronic conditions such as allergies or asthma.

ENT surgery plays a vital role in treating nasal polyps, especially when medical treatments are insufficient. Endoscopic sinus surgery and polypectomy provide effective solutions for removing polyps, improving breathing, reducing sinus infections, and enhancing the sense of smell. With appropriate post-surgery care and ongoing medical management, the chances of long-term relief and reduced recurrence are greatly improved. Regular follow-ups with an ENT specialist help ensure optimal outcomes and sustained relief from symptoms.