What is Chronic Sinusitis?
Chronic sinusitis is a long-standing inflammation of the cavities around nasal passages (sinuses) that persists for 12 weeks or longer, despite medical therapy interventions. It restricts standard mucus flow, causing chronic congestion, breathing blocks, facial pain, and recurring headaches.
Common Symptoms
Underlying Causes
The condition is frequently triggered by structural blockages like a deviated nasal septum, nasal polyps (non-cancerous growths), recurring environmental allergies, or respiratory tract infections that obstruct the narrow drainage canals.
Clinical Diagnosis
Dr. Rohit Agerwal utilizes modern in-office video endoscopy mapping to view the sinus passageways, supplemented by computed tomography (CT Scan) imaging to determine exact structural blockages in the bony drainage channels.
The Procedure: FESS (Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery)
Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery is the gold-standard minimally invasive microsurgery to treat persistent sinus infections. The operation utilizes thin, lighted fiber-optic tubes (endoscopes) inserted directly via the nostrils. No external incisions or facial scarring occur.
Clinical Benefits of FESS
No External Cuts
Entire surgery is navigated intranasally under high definition camera viewports.
Anatomical Preservation
Only diseased tissues and obstructing bone particles are cleared, keeping healthy structures intact.
Post-Operative Recovery Timeline
Day 1 - 2: Post-Op Drainage & Care
Mild pinkish drainage and nasal stuffiness are standard. Focus on bed rest; avoid blowing your nose.
Day 3 - 5: Start Saline Irrigations
Clinical nasal saline washes start to clear dressings. Patients can resume light desk work.
Week 2 - 4: Complete Healing
Inflammation subsides, breathing pathways open fully, and full physical activity can be resumed.
Potential Risks & Complications
As with any surgery, risks exist, though minimal under modern micro-endoscopic guidance. Potential complications include post-operative bleeding, localized infection, temporary swelling, or minor scarring within nasal passages.