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Sinusitis is mucosal inflammation of the paranasal sinuses caused by blocked drainage pathways and impaired mucus clearance.
Acute vs. Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Sinusitis is an inflammatory condition of the paranasal sinus mucosa triggered by ostial blockage and impaired mucus drainage.
- Acute Sinusitis: Typically follows an upper respiratory tract infection and resolves within 4 weeks.
- Chronic Rhinosinusitis: Persistent nasal obstruction, post-nasal drip, reduced sense of smell, and facial pressure lasting at least 12 weeks, confirmed by nasal endoscopy or sinus CT.
Medical Therapy vs. Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)
| Clinical Parameter | Conservative Medical Therapy | Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Indication | Acute rhinosinusitis (<4 weeks) & mild mucosal edema | Refractory chronic sinusitis (12+ weeks), nasal polyps, fungal ball, mucocele |
| Approach & Incision | Saline irrigation, topical steroid sprays & medication | 100% endonasal via nostrils (HD/4K camera), zero external incisions or scars |
| Anatomical Effect | Reduces mucosal swelling within existing pathways | Physiologically widens blocked ostia while preserving healthy mucosa |
| Duration & Anesthesia | Outpatient medical protocol | General anesthesia · Average 1–2 hours |
| Recovery & Flight | No downtime | Same/next-day discharge · ~Day 3 check-up & fit-to-fly evaluation |
📚 Evidence-Based Medical Guideline Alignment: Diagnostic and surgical criteria on this page align with the international European Position Paper on Rhinosinusitis and Nasal Polyps (EPOS) guidelines and are medically reviewed by Prof. Dr. H. Baki Yılmaz (President of Istanbul ENT Specialists Association, 2026–2027 · Kocaeli Health and Technology University).