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Complications of Sinus Surgery

Surgery on the sinuses typically goes well, but about five percent of patients do have complications from the procedure that may require additional treatment. These complications can range from simple to complex, but very rarely are they fatal. Complications can arise due to a number of factors, and sometimes they could have been prevented. However, even the most experienced surgeon may come upon some unavoidable problems from time to time.

  1. Common Infection

    • Infection is the most common complication of sinus surgery, so much so that doctors typically prescribe antibiotics upon completion of the surgery. Infection and inflammation can sometimes signal a more serious problem, especially if the patient experiences any type of obstruction, or has pain, pressure or an unusual discharge. In these instances, it may be necessary for a culture to be obtained to find the cause, possibly resulting in a change in treatment.

    Voice Quality

    • It is very possible that sinus surgery can change the sound of the patient's voice. The sinuses are part of the area that voice resonance is developed in, and changing the structure of this area can affect voice quality. People who are required to have excellent resonance--including people who work or have hobbies in public speaking, acting, singing, negotiating or officiating--may want to discuss alternatives to surgery with their doctor before making the decision to have surgery.

    Injury to Eyes

    • From time to time, sinus surgery may cause bleeding or swelling in the orbital cavity, causing the patient to develop double vision for a short period of time. This usually resolves on its own, without any intercession from the doctor. In extremely rare cases, and only if the muscles involved with eye movement are damaged, double vision may be permanent. Another rare complication of sinus surgery is loss of vision due to excessive bleeding in the orbital cavity or optic nerve damage.

    Failure of the Surgery

    • Sinus surgery is not guaranteed to solve sinus issues. Even after surgery, the patient may still suffer from sinus infections and inflammation to the extent that additional surgery is necessary. The environment the patient lives in may be a possible reason for the persistent problem. Lifestyle changes, such as changing to a smoke-free environment, taking medications as prescribed and ridding the home of allergens, can boost the chances of success of the surgery.

    Brain Injury

    • An uncommon complication of sinus surgery is an infection in the brain. There is a possibility that cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) will leak during surgery, but the surgeon can stop the leakage if it is noticed. If it is not discovered until later, the patient may suffer severe complications. One of the danger signs of leaking CSF is a watery discharge coming from the nose, and you should notify your doctor immediately if this occurs. It can result in an infection or meningitis in extreme cases.

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