Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) is a surgical procedure performed using endoscopic imaging systems to visualize the nasal and sinus cavities while working with small and precise surgical instruments.
Because the sinuses are located close to important structures such as the brain, eyes, optic nerves and major blood vessels, endoscopic sinus surgery requires careful work within a complex anatomical region.
What Is Endoscopic Sinus Surgery?
During FESS, the surgical area is monitored through images obtained from endoscopic systems rather than direct visualization. This allows the surgeon to work within the narrow anatomical spaces of the nose and sinuses using small and delicate instruments.
When Is It Most Commonly Performed?
One of the most common indications for endoscopic sinus surgery is chronic sinusitis that does not respond adequately to appropriately selected and sufficiently prolonged medical treatment.
Areas of Application of Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
In addition to chronic sinus disease, endoscopic surgical techniques may also be used in the treatment of various conditions involving the sinuses and neighboring anatomical structures.
Chronic Sinusitis
It may be performed in chronic sinus inflammation that does not respond adequately to appropriate medical treatment.
Nasal and Sinus Polyps
Endoscopic surgery may be used to remove polyps developing within the nose and sinus cavities.
Sinus Tumors
Endoscopic approaches may be used in the surgical treatment of selected tumors originating from the sinus region.
Anterior Skull Base Problems
It may be used in selected injuries and conditions involving the anterior skull base adjacent to the sinuses.
Orbital Injuries
Endoscopic surgical techniques may be considered in some cases involving trauma-related damage to the eye socket.
Optic Nerve Compression
In appropriate cases, endoscopic surgical approaches may be evaluated when the optic nerve is under compression.
What Procedures Are Performed in Chronic Sinus Disease?
The extent of surgery in chronic sinus disease is planned according to the patient's individual anatomy and the specific problems affecting the sinuses.
Removal of Inflamed Tissue and Polyps
Inflamed tissues and polyps that interfere with sinus ventilation and drainage may be removed from the affected areas.
Opening the Sinus Drainage Pathways
The natural drainage pathways that allow sinus secretions to reach the nasal cavity are opened and regulated as necessary.
Correction of Anatomical Problems
Structures such as turbinate swelling, concha bullosa, accessory ostia and abnormal mucosal contact points that may affect airflow or sinus drainage can be evaluated and treated when necessary.
Anatomical Problems That May Affect Sinus Drainage
Enlargement of tissues inside the nose may narrow the nasal airway.
Air-filled cells within the turbinates may affect the sinus drainage pathways in some patients.
The presence of more than one drainage opening in a sinus is one of the anatomical features that may require evaluation.
Abnormal contact areas within the nasal cavity may be corrected during surgery when clinically necessary.
Advanced Technology and Surgical Experience
The sinuses surrounding the nose are located within a narrow and anatomically complex region. This area is also closely related to several important anatomical structures.
The close proximity of the brain, eyes, optic nerves, tear ducts and major blood vessels increases the importance of surgical experience and appropriate technological equipment during endoscopic sinus surgery.
After Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
The postoperative period may vary depending on the extent of the surgical procedure. Pain after surgery is generally managed with pain-relieving medication recommended by the physician.
Pain Management
Pain-relieving medication recommended by the physician may be used to control discomfort that can occur after surgery.
Nasal Cleaning and Moisturizing
Nasal sprays containing sterile saline may be used to mechanically clean the nasal cavity and moisturize the mucosa until crusting has resolved.
Regular Follow-Up
Postoperative dressings and follow-up examinations are important for monitoring the healing process.
Postoperative Follow-Up and Dressing Schedule
First Follow-Up
The first postoperative examination is generally performed within 2–4 days. If nasal packing has been used, it may be removed during this visit according to the physician's evaluation.
Dressing and Cleaning
At the end of the first week, crusts that have formed within the nose and sinus drainage pathways may be cleaned when necessary, and the area is evaluated for signs of infection.
Follow-Up Visits
Depending on the extent of surgery and the healing process, follow-up visits may be scheduled at 1–2 week intervals until recovery is complete.
Why Is Postoperative Care Important?
During regular postoperative care and follow-up visits, crusting within the nose and sinuses can be evaluated and cleaned when necessary, anti-adhesion materials may be removed if they were used, and the healing process can be monitored for signs of infection.
The Main Goal of Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
The primary goal of endoscopic sinus surgery is to restore the natural drainage and ventilation pathways of the sinuses, remove diseased tissue and support healthier sinus function.
The extent of surgery is planned individually by evaluating the patient's symptoms, sinus anatomy, underlying condition and imaging findings together.

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