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Nasal Polyp Removal

Nasal polyps are often tear-shaped growths on the exterior of the nose itself as well as inside the sinuses and nasal lining and passages. They are normally noncancerous. They are essentially formed by chronic inflammation of nasal mucous membranes. People with allergic rhinitis or membrane swelling from aspirin sensitivity may get polyps. Adults and children who suffer from cystic fibrosis are susceptible to polyps as well. But there are several ways to remove the polyps.

  1. Surgical Removal of Nasal Polyps

    • Performance of polypectomies and endoscopic sinus surgery, the two most common surgeries for the removal of nasal polyps, will often be the surgical treatment of choice of many physicians. During a polypectomy, which is often utilized to remove smaller nasal polyps, the surgeon will use a mechanical suction instrument or a debriding tool that extracts and cuts away the soft tissue the polyp is formed by. During endoscopic sinus surgery, the physician will utilize an endoscope inserted into the nasal cavity. With the use of magnifying instruments, the surgeon views the polyps and cuts them away.

      Most commonly, endoscopic sinus surgeries and polypectomies are performed on an out-patient basis but may require you to be put under general anesthesia.

    Non-Surgical Removal of Nasal Polyps

    • Using corticosteroids, such as fluticasone, budesonide or beclomethasone, your doctor can often help shrink the polyps without the use of more invasive surgical methods. If topical corticosteroids are not helpful, oral steroidal medications such as prednisone are often prescribed instead. Because prednisone and other corticosteroids often have side effects, treatment with them is often extremely short-term in nature.

    Genetic Predisposition for Nasal Polyps

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, if nasal polyps run in the family, they are likely the result of a gene entitled HLA DR7 that has been inherited by family members throughout time. Further, according to Cambridge University's Journal of Laryngology and Otology, if one person in a set of identical twins develops nasal polyposis, it is likely the twin sibling will develop this condition as well.

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