What risk is associated with endoscopic sinus surgery?

Endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic sinusitis. While it is generally considered a safe and effective procedure, there are certain risks associated with it, including:

1. Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection after ESS. This can be minimized by following the surgeon's post-operative instructions and taking prescribed antibiotics.

2. Bleeding: Bleeding during and after ESS is common, but it is usually controlled by the surgeon during the procedure. In rare cases, excessive bleeding may require additional treatment or even a blood transfusion.

3. Damage to surrounding structures: ESS involves working in close proximity to delicate structures such as the eyes, brain, and major blood vessels. Although rare, there is a risk of damaging these structures during the procedure.

4. Adhesions: Adhesions are scar tissues that can form between the surgical site and surrounding tissues. They can cause nasal obstruction and other problems, and may require additional surgery to correct.

5. Recurrence of sinusitis: While ESS is effective in relieving sinusitis symptoms in the majority of patients, there is a chance that the sinusitis may recur in some cases. Revision surgery may be necessary in such cases.

6. Anosmia (loss of smell): Damage to the olfactory nerves during ESS can lead to temporary or permanent loss of smell. This risk is relatively low, but it should be discussed with the surgeon before the procedure.

It is important to note that these risks are relatively uncommon and the vast majority of patients who undergo ESS experience successful outcomes with significant improvement in their sinusitis symptoms. However, it is crucial to be aware of these risks and discuss them with the surgeon before making a decision about the procedure.