Outcomes Of Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) In Patients With Chronic Rhinosinusitis With Nasal Polyps

Original Article

Abstract

Background:Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by nasal obstruction, olfactory dysfunction, and reduced quality of life. Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is the preferred treatment for patients who fail medical therapy; however, recurrence remains a concern.

Objective:To evaluate clinical outcomes, symptom relief, quality-of-life improvement, and recurrence following FESS in patients with CRSwNP.

Methods:Seventy-five patients with CRSwNP undergoing FESS were included. Preoperative assessment was performed using the SNOT-22 score and endoscopic evaluation. Patients were followed postoperatively at 3, 6, and 12 months to assess symptom improvement, recurrence, and complications. Data were analyzed using SPSS. Continuous variables were expressed as mean ± standard deviation, and comparisons were made using paired t-tests. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:The mean age was 44.7 ± 12.5 years. Significant improvement in SNOT-22 scores was observed, decreasing from 62.4 ± 9.8 preoperatively to 28.7 ± 7.6 at 12 months (p < 0.001). Nasal congestion resolved in 92% of patients, hyposmia improved in 63%, and headache in 62%. Recurrence was observed in 24% of cases. No major complications were reported. Extended FESS showed better outcomes compared to limited FESS (p = 0.028).

Conclusion:FESS is a safe and effective treatment for CRSwNP, significantly improving symptoms and quality of life. Despite recurrence risk, appropriate surgical approach and patient selection enhance long-term outcomes.