Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) is a minimally invasive procedure to restore the paranasal sinuses’ normal drainage and function. By using an endoscope—a thin, flexible tube with a camera—surgeons can directly see the sinus passages and tackle issues like chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, and certain types of nasal tumors without making any external cuts.
Indications for FESS:
FESS is generally recommended for patients who have not seen sufficient improvement from medical treatments for conditions such as:
Chronic Sinusitis: Ongoing inflammation of the sinuses that lasts longer than 12 weeks.
Nasal Polyps: Noncancerous growths that can block nasal passages.
Sinus Tumors: Both benign and malignant growths are found within the sinus cavities.
Benefits of FESS:
Minimally Invasive: The procedure is done entirely through the nostrils, which means no external incisions are needed.
Reduced Recovery Time: Patients usually recover faster compared to traditional open surgeries.
Improved Symptom Relief: Many experience better breathing, less facial pain, and fewer sinus infections after the surgery.
The FESS Procedure:
During FESS, the surgeon places the endoscope into the nasal cavity to get a magnified view of the sinuses. They then use specialized instruments to remove blockages, such as polyps or diseased tissue, restoring normal sinus drainage. This procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and can take anywhere from one to three hours, depending on its complexity.
