Effectiveness of Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) in Improving Nasal Symptoms in Patients having Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps (CRSWNP)

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of FESS in ameliorating preoperative nasal symptoms attributable to CRS when compared with the postoperative period, particularly within a 30-day timeframe.
Methodology: A prospective observational study was conducted at the Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Dow University of Health Sciences/Civil Hospital Karachi, from January 1st, 2022, to June 30th, 2022. A cohort of 149 eligible patients participated in the study, completing the SNOT-22 questionnaire 48 hours preoperatively and 30 days postoperatively. Efficacy was assessed through improvements in postoperative nasal symptoms, quantified using SNOT-22 scores.
Results: Of the 149 patients enrolled, 121 were male and 28 were female. Significant associations were observed between preoperative and postoperative SNOT-22 scores (p-value 0.036), with notable correlations found regarding unemployment, positive family history of allergy, and patients aged 15-35 years, all demonstrating significant reduction in nasal symptoms postoperatively.
Conclusion: FESS emerged as highly efficacious in managing CRSwNP symptoms, with notable enhancements in postoperative nasal symptoms and overall quality of life. Furthermore, positive outcomes were particularly pronounced among patients with a family history of nasal allergy, individuals within the younger age group, and those unemployed.
Key words: Chronic rhinosinusitis, Functional endoscopic sinus surgery, Nasal polyps, Nasal symptoms, Rhinosinusitis.