NASAL POLYPS REMOVAL

General Information

DEFINITION--Removal of nasal polyps, accumulations of fluid under the membrane lining inside the nose.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Nose and its membrane lining.

REASONS FOR SURGERY--Restoration of normal breathing.

SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH--None expected.

What To Expect

WHO OPERATES--Ear, nose and throat specialist (otolaryngologist).

WHERE PERFORMED--Doctor's office, hospital or outpatient surgical facility.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS--Blood and urine studies before surgery.

ANESTHESIA

• Local anesthesia by topical application.
• Local anesthesia by injection.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• The nose is held open with a speculum.
• The polyps are located, clamped and removed with a wire loop.
• Bleeding is controlled with electrocautery.
• Petroleum jelly and gauze may be applied to the surgical area to prevent bleeding. Your doctor will remove this dressing, usually 3 to 4 days after surgery.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Excessive bleeding.
• Surgical-wound infection.

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY--0 to 1 day.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Expect complete healing without complications. Allow about 2 weeks for recovery from surgery.

Postoperative Care

GENERAL MEASURES

• Don't blow your nose for the first 3 days after surgery.
• Beginning 24 hours after surgery, apply warm compresses to the nose to relieve discomfort. Do this for 15 to 20 minutes several times daily, for as long as needed.

† You may use non--prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, to relieve minor pain.

ACTIVITY---No restrictions usually.

DIET--Eat a well--balanced diet to promote healing.

Call Your Doctor If

† Pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding increase in the surgical area.

• You develop signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever.
• You experience new symptoms, such as nausea or vomiting.