What nasal polyps are?

Nasal polyps are painless and non-cancerous, i.e. benign, growths that form in the nasal cavities and paranasal sinuses. They develop in the mucous tissue lining the nasal cavity as a result of prolonged inflammation or infection. Their size ranges from very small (almost invisible) to very large, making them visible to the naked eye. In several cases, they cause nasal obstruction while they may also extend to the sinuses. If a nasal polyp causes unpleasant symptoms to the patient, it is important to remove it surgically. The operation performed in this case is nasal polyps endoscopic removal.

Nasal Polyps formation causes

Nasal polyps develop in inflamed tissue of the nasal mucosa, which is a layer of thin, soft tissue that lines the inside of the nasal cavity. Its role is to help protect the inside of the nose and sinuses and to moisten the inhaled air. During an infection or irritation caused by an allergy, the nasal lining becomes swollen and red and may produce mucus.

With prolonged irritation, the mucous membrane can form a polyp. Factors associated with the development of nasal polyps include allergic rhinitis, chronic sinusitis, chronic inflammation of the nasal cavity caused by viruses, bacteria or fungi, asthma and cystic fibrosis. Other factors include genetic factors and a family history of the condition, intolerance to drugs such as aspirin, smoking and insufficient intake of vitamin D3.

Nasal polyps symptoms

Small nasal polyps may cause no symptoms. But as they get older, they can lead to headaches, nasal congestion and runny nose, loss of smell or taste, nosebleeds, pressure or pain in the sinuses, face or upper teeth. When polyps grow significantly in size, they cause blockage of the nasal cavities and paranasal sinuses.

In this case, symptoms such as difficulty breathing, episodes of sleep apnea, i.e. cessation of breathing during sleep, and frequent asthma attacks in people suffering from asthma occur. When unpleasant symptoms are caused to the patient, nasal polyps endoscopic removal is the recommended method to treat the problem effectively.

Nasal polyps diagnosis

The diagnosis of the condition is made by a specialized otorhinolaryngologist with a clinical examination and by obtaining the patient’s medical history. An endoscopy is then performed to assess the size and exact location of the nasal polyps. If necessary, the patient may undergo further radiological check with CT or MRI to determine the extent of polyps in other areas such as the sinuses, but also the presence of other anatomical issues such as scoliosis of the nasal septum. Depending on their size and the symptoms they cause, nasal polyps are treated either with medication or surgery.

Conservative treatment for nasal polyps

Conservative treatment with medication includes nasal sprays containing cortisone, while cortisone in pill form is given in case of severe deterioration of the condition for a short period of time. Nasal washes using special solutions or saline are also recommended. In case of an allergic condition, antihistamine pills are administered at the same time. The patient is regularly monitored to determine whether the polyps are decreasing in size or completely disappearing. If however the nasal polyps do not disappear, then nasal polyps endoscopic removal is the recommended method.

Nasal polyps endoscopic removal: Process & Surgical results

Nasal polyps endoscopic removal is carried out through endoscopic surgery of the nose – paranasal sinuses. The operation is carried out using a special thin endoscope, which transfers the enlarged image of the interior of the nasal cavities to a high-definition screen. ENT Surgeon in Athens Dr. Olga Papadopoulou then uses special surgical instruments that are inserted into the nasal area without the need to make external incisions in order to remove the polyps. The abnormal tissue is removed and the sinus cavities are opened in order to be widened and thoroughly cleaned to ensure the prevention of future recurrences.

Nasal polyps endoscopic removal is performed without incisions, so there are no postoperative scars and pain. The patient is discharged the same day, having received clear post-operative instructions. These include regular washing using a special solution or saline, while the use of a nasal spray is recommended. It is important for the patient to consistently follow the instructions of the attending physician for an extended period of time in order to avoid the recurrence of symptoms.