Endoscopic Sinus Surgery By the Numbers
I am one of the most active endoscopic sinus surgeons here in L.A., but even I continue to be surprised at how popular the procedure has become. I recently came across an article that estimated that 80 to 90% of sinus sufferers report a significant reduction in symptoms following this type of sinus surgery.
The benefits of endoscopic sinus surgery have been well known for some time, but it wasn’t until the last 20 years or so that sinus surgeons really began to refine their approach. Today the endoscope is a thinner, brighter and more flexible tool than it used to be, and the instruments we use for refining tissues are even more precise. In addition, image-guided technology has revolutionized traditional sinus surgical techniques by providing surgeons with a way to navigate through the body using three-dimensional (3D) images as their guide. These images provide a level of detail not seen before in the operating room. The technology is similar to that used by today’s global positioning satellite (GPS) systems, which can track the exact location and direction of vehicles at any point on the globe. Because the view is so precise, a surgeon can actually see where healthy tissue ends and abnormal tissue begins. The result is far less collateral tissue damage and far more effective procedures, from removing polyps to correcting deviated septums.
My Los Angeles sinus surgery practice emphasizes using the latest technology as often as we can. Not only do these advanced techniques reduce scarring and discomfort, but it allows a faster recovery with longer lasting results.
If you are looking for relief from enlarged turbinates, chronic sinusitis, nasal obstruction, or sinus headaches, please contact the Los Angeles Sinus Institute to learn more about your options.