What Is Endoscopic Sinus Surgery?
Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is a procedure that aims to open the natural pathways of the sinuses with minimal discomfort. This route is taken when the physician and patient find that symptoms are persistent and or unresponsive to medication (e.g., antibiotics, decongestants, nasal steroid sprays, antihistamines).
The key advantage of this revolutionary procedure is convenience. The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis, patients experience very little discomfort after surgery, and recovery time is usually minimal.
What Is the Procedure?
During FESS, the surgeon will insert a very thin fiber-optic tube, called an endoscope, into the patient’s nose. Using micro-telescopes and state-of-the-art surgical instruments, the surgeon will then remove any abnormal or obstructive tissue found in the sinus cavity. Clearing the natural pathways of the sinuses will give diseased mucosa a chance to return to normal, and infection should dissipate soon after. Patients tend to experience mild swelling and some discomfort.