Surgery Overview
In endoscopic sinus surgery, an endoscope is inserted into the nose. It lets the doctor see inside the sinuses.
Surgical tools are inserted alongside the endoscope. This allows the doctor to remove small amounts of bone or other material blocking the sinus openings. The doctor can also remove growths (polyps) of the mucous membrane. In some cases a laser is used to burn away tissue blocking the sinus opening. A small rotating burr that scrapes away tissue may also be used.
The surgery may be done in a hospital or an outpatient surgery center. Either local or general anesthesia may be used. The procedure takes 30 to 90 minutes.
Current as of: October 27, 2024
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