Traditional FESS is a minimally invasive procedure designed to restore sinus function and increase the airflow of the nasal passageways. It is performed in rhinitis and sinusitis patients with nasal blockages.
A nasal telescope is used to look directly into the sinuses to see the blockages and remove them as necessary. This method works by enlarging the drainage pathways to prevent the symptoms that lead to chronic rhinosinusitis.
The procedure is either done under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with a sedative. It takes roughly 2 to 4 hours and a hospital stay is rarely required. Nasal packing is rarely needed – if it is, your doctor will need to remove the packing after one week.
Patients experience dull aches and pains in the nose for several days, which can be treated with pain medication. Although there will be congestion for a few days after the procedure, this will eventually subside.
