Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

Sometimes abbreviated as ESS or FESS (for Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery), this procedure opens the sinuses and allows them to drain.  The surgeon uses an “endoscope” to see into the sinuses, similar to the one used during your pre-operative evaluation.  The endoscope utilizes fiberoptic glass rods to provide superb visualization during the surgery.  This allows the surgeon to precisely open the sinus drainage pathways wider while leaving the remaining tissue undisturbed.  The surgeon passes specialized instruments along side the narrow scope into the nose to perform the necessary procedures.

The majority of individuals have four sets of sinuses on each side:  maxillary (under the eyes), ethmoid (between the eyes), frontal (above the eyes), and sphenoid (behind the nose).  Sinusitis may affect some or all of these sinuses.  Based on your symptoms, examination, and CT scan, your surgeon will determine which sinuses will need to be opened.  Occasionally during the surgery, additional inflammation or infection is discovered and may necessitate opening more sinuses.