Quality of life of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis before and after functional endoscopic sinus surgery and septum correction

Abstract

Introduction. Chronic sinusitis is an inflammatory process of the mucous membrane of the nasal and paranasal sinus cavities that develops because of disturbances in their drainage and ventilation, caused by various factors. This condition is considered one of the most common reasons for visiting ENT doctors. Ventilation disorder causes great discomfort and impairs quality of life. The primary treatment for chronic sinusitis is functional endoscopic sinus surgery and septoplasty.

Objective. To assess the quality of life of patients with chronic sinusitis before and after functional endoscopic sinus surgery and septoplasty.

Material and methods. The following study used a diagnostic survey method. A self-administered questionnaire and the SF-36 questionnaire were used to assess quality of life. Each participant was informed of the anonymity and purpose of the study and how to complete the questionnaires. The study group comprised 100 people, both women and men aged 18 and over, attending the Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery Unit and otolaryngology outpatient clinic in Włocławek.

Results. Analysis of the study results showed that the most common complaints associated with chronic sinusitis were a feeling of a blocked nose, difficulty in breathing and headaches. All these complaints significantly affected the patients’ quality of life. Most respondents admitted that they had been treated with medication prior to the procedure. The vast majority of respondents felt satisfied with the procedure performed. Performing FESS and septoplasty significantly improved the patients’ quality of life and performance of activities of daily living.

Conclusions. Sociodemographically, there are no significant differences in most aspects of health and quality of life. However, there are differences in mental health. Better physical and social functioning can also be observed in those with higher education. In terms of age, no differences in quality of life after surgery were noticed either. Performing FESS endoscopic sinus surgery has high results in improving patients’ quality of life.