That may include tests to rule out allergies or a weakened immune system. We generally treat with antibiotics plus a decongestant to shrink the nasal membranes for a minimum of two weeks. If the condition persists, the specialists may use a nasal endoscope to search the maze of sinus-drainage pathways for polyps that need to be removed or anatomic abnormalities, such as a deviated septum, that need to be corrected. We use sophisticated tools to straighten the deviation, which allows the patient to breathe better and gives us access so we can carefully remove only the obstructing tissue and save the rest. There's no cutting on the face and minimal bleeding.
Patients go home a few hours after surgery.
While UT Southwestern specialists treat chronic sinusitis without surgery more than 90 percent of the time, they continue to search for ways to improve surgical and nonsurgical therapies. That research includes laboratory testing of ways to spray antibiotics into the nose, which could increase effectiveness and decrease side effects. With Dr. David Khan, an assistant professor of internal medicine who treats asthma and allergies, they are testing new anti-inflammatory drugs to fight recurrent nasal polyps. Because of their efforts, we can all breathe a little easier. Page maintained by News and Publications .