Nasal polyp removal
Nasal polyp removal refers to the surgical procedure undertaken to eliminate nasal polyps, which are benign, swollen masses that can obstruct airflow and affect breathing in individuals, particularly those with allergies or chronic sinus conditions. These polyps may develop as a result of chronic inflammation due to allergies or sinus infections. If they lead to significant issues like difficulty breathing, a reduced sense of smell, or frequent nosebleeds, removal may be necessary. Initially, treatment may involve nasal corticosteroid sprays to shrink smaller polyps. However, when medications are ineffective, a surgical approach called nasal polypectomy is employed. This outpatient procedure is conducted under general or local anesthesia, where specialized instruments are used to excise the polyps safely while managing pain and bleeding. Following the procedure, nasal passages are typically packed with gauze to facilitate healing and minimize bleeding, which is later removed in a follow-up appointment. While complications are generally minimal, they can include bleeding, discomfort, and potential recurrence of polyps, especially in patients with underlying conditions like cystic fibrosis. Understanding the indications and management of nasal polyps can help individuals make informed decisions regarding their health.
Subject Terms
Nasal polyp removal
Anatomy or system affected: Head, nose
Definition: The excision of benign growths that project from the mucous membrane lining the nasal cavity
Indications and Procedures
Nasal polyps are swollen masses that project from the nasal wall. These benign structures are commonly found in patients with allergies. They may cause chronic nasal obstruction, which results in diminished airflow through the nasal cavity.
Once a polyp is detected, the physician may prescribe a nasal spray to reduce its size, such as the corticosteroids beclometasone or flunisolide. This treatment is usually effective for small nasal polyps that cause only minor symptoms. When pharmacological management is not successful, the polyps should be removed surgically.
Surgical removal of nasal polyps (nasal polypectomy) is typically done as an outpatient procedure. It requires either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. After the patient is asleep or sedated, the lining of the nasal cavity is injected with a combination of local anesthesia and epinephrine to control pain and bleeding. The surgeon (usually an otorhinolaryngologist) visualizes the polyps with a headlight, and the polyps are removed with specialized long surgical instruments inserted into the nasal cavity. After the polyps are removed, the nasal passages are packed with ointment-coated gauze to help control bleeding and aid in the healing of the nasal mucosa. The gauze is removed in the physician’s office a few days after the surgery. Once the packing is removed, the patient enjoys improved breathing through the nasal passages.
Uses and Complications
There are relatively few complications associated with nasal polyp removal. Some of the more common complications include bleeding from the surgical site, nasal and ear discomfort or anxiety as a result of the packing, and nausea from the anesthesia. The recurrence of nasal polyps after polypectomy is not unusual. Patients with cystic fibrosis have a high rate of occurrence of nasal polyps and often have recurrent problems.
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