What is FESS?
Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is performed through the nostrils using rigid endoscopes. The aim is to open selected sinus drainage pathways, remove obstructing inflammatory tissue or polyps where appropriate, and improve access for ongoing topical treatment.
Who may benefit?
FESS may be considered for selected patients with chronic rhinosinusitis, nasal polyps, recurrent acute sinusitis or other specific sinus conditions when the expected benefit outweighs the risks and non-surgical treatment has been appropriately explored.
Advanced and image-guided sinus surgery
Mr Omakobia's fellowship and consultant practice include navigation-assisted endoscopic sinus surgery and frontal sinus procedures, including advanced approaches where clinically indicated. Image guidance is an adjunct to surgical anatomy and judgement; it does not replace them.
Assessment before surgery
- Detailed symptom history and previous medical treatment
- Nasal examination and usually endoscopy
- Review of CT imaging when surgery is being planned
- Discussion of asthma, allergy, aspirin sensitivity and relevant comorbidity
- Discussion of realistic goals and the need for long-term postoperative care
Risks and recovery
All surgery carries risks. For endoscopic sinus surgery these can include bleeding, infection, adhesions/scarring, persistence or recurrence of symptoms and need for further treatment. Rare but important complications relate to the eye socket or skull base because of their proximity to the sinuses. Your individual risk profile is discussed as part of consent.