Sinus Disease
Acute sinusitis is one of the most common reasons for a visit to
the Ear, Nose and Throat doctor (ENT). Bacteria infection of the
sinuses usually occurs following a viral upper respiratory infection.
Nasal congestion with colored nasal drainage that persists longer
than 7 to 10 days with associated fever, headache and facial pain
are hallmarks of acute sinusitis. Treatment with decongestants and
antibiotics will often shorten the course of the infection. Most
individuals will experience 2 or 3 episodes of acute sinusitis yearly.
Occasionally, nasal drainage, headaches and facial pain will
persist for longer periods of time (weeks) despite treatment with
antibiotics, decongestants and nasal salt water irrigations. This
is suggestive of chronic sinusitis and should be evaluated by
an ENT. Usually chronic sinusitis can be treated adequately with
medications. If medical treatment fails, sinus surgery may be
indicated. The goal of sinus surgery is to remove the chronically
infected tissue and enlarge the normal sinus drainage pathways.
Recent advances in the technique of sinus surgery have nearly
eliminated the need for incisions outside the nose. The surgery
is now done entirely thru the nose with the use of small telescopes,
known as endoscopes. The high resolution of the telescopes permits
precise removal of infected tissue, while preserving normal sinus
lining. This leads to shorter recovery times with less post-operative
pain and scarring.
Computer imaging has now evolved to allow for "virtual sinus
surgery" which provides instant computer tracking during sinus
surgery, improving anatomic localization and disease removal.
Both Dr. Lee and Dr. Jordan have experience with this latest technique
of sinus surgery and are amongst few in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area
utilizing this technology.
