Sphenoidotomy

Sphenoiditis is an inflammation of the sphenoidal sinus, one of the paired cavities located deep in the skull, behind the sphenoid maxillary sinuses. This disease is caused by stagnation of secretions and subsequent spread of infection in this sinus. This pathology cannot be treated with conservative methods. Only surgical intervention - sphenoidotomy - can help restore a person to the joy of a full life.
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Sphenoidotomy and indications for surgery

The main purpose of sphenoidotomy is to improve drainage and ventilation of the sinus. After the operation, headaches disappear and pressure in the face decreases significantly.

Sphenoidotomy is performed if there are problems with the upper respiratory tract (in particular with the nasal turbinates). In particular, indications for intervention include:

  • Chronic sinusitis (long-term inflammation of the sphenoid sinus)
  • Runny nose of unknown origin (sphenoidotomy is relevant if persistent discharge from the maxillary sinuses does not disappear after standard treatment)
  • Persistent headaches in the back of the head or at the base of the skull
  • Difficulty breathing through the sinuses (this disorder is caused by a blockage of the sphenoidal sinus)

The procedure is also prescribed against the background of complications of meningitis and other infections that have developed due to the spread of infection from the sinus.

Sphenoidotomy and indications for surgery

Contraindications

Contraindications

The main contraindication to surgery on the maxillary sinuses is active respiratory infections. The presence of acute infections (influenza, acute bronchitis) may increase the risk of complications during and after the intervention.

Other contraindications:

  • Serious blood diseases (hemophilia)
  • Uncontrolled chronic pathological diseases (diabetes)
  • Presence of tumors in the sinus area

In addition, sphenoidotomy is not performed against the background of recent surgical interventions on the face. At least 3 months must pass between surgical procedures.

General information about the procedure

How is the sphenoidotomy procedure performed?

The first stage of sphenoidotomy is the administration of anesthesia. The intervention itself is performed using an endoscope and other instruments.

First, the doctor inserts an endoscope equipped with a camera and a light source into the nasal passage. This allows the surgeon to see the internal structure of the sinuses on a monitor.

As the video endoscopic device advances, the doctor begins to expand the sinus opening. This is done to ensure better drainage and ventilation of the sinus.

To perform this procedure, the doctor uses microshavers. With their help, he carefully cuts away the bone structures or mucous membrane, thus creating a wider opening for drainage.

If cysts or other abnormal growths are detected, the surgeon removes them. After this, the specialist removes the endoscope and other instruments and the sphenoidotomy process is completed.

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How is the sphenoidotomy procedure performed?

Preparation for sphenoidotomy

Preparation for sphenoidotomy begins with a consultation with a doctor. At the same time, the specialist collects anamnesis and discusses with the patient the possible risks and benefits of the intervention.

In order to accurately diagnose the condition of the sphenoid sinus, the patient is prescribed additional tests - for example, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the head. This determines the exact location and size of the sinus lesion or blockage.

Based on the data obtained, the doctor develops a detailed surgical plan. In particular, it includes the choice of technology and endoscopic instruments.

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Preparation for sphenoidotomy

Rehabilitation

Immediately after the procedure, the patient is under strict observation in the hospital for several days (the duration of this stage depends on the characteristics of the operation). At the same time, nurses regularly check his blood pressure, breathing rate and general well-being.

Pain medications help reduce discomfort after surgery. In order to prevent infections, the doctor prescribes a course of antibiotics (this is especially true if during the intervention large areas of the mucous membrane or polyps were removed).

At home, it is necessary to regularly rinse the maxillary sinuses with saline solutions. At the same time, it is important to try not to blow your nose and, if possible, avoid active actions that can cause increased pressure in the sinuses.

In order to restore normal breathing and improve sinus ventilation after sphenoidotomy, respiratory therapy is prescribed. In the process, patients learn proper breathing techniques that help improve air flow and make breathing easier. In addition, in order to assess the healing process after sphenoidotomy, the patient should visit the doctor regularly.

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Rehabilitation

Answers to popular questions

Here you will find answers to frequently asked questions about the surgery process. In particular, people ask about indications, possible complications and features of the recovery period.

Is it possible to eat before a sphenoidotomy?

You should refrain from eating 8 hours before sphenoidotomy. This is because the anesthesia used during sinus surgery can trigger the gag reflex. Following this rule helps reduce the risk of aspiration, a condition where food or liquid gets into the airways.

How long does the procedure take?

The duration of a sphenoidotomy varies depending on the complexity of the case, but the procedure usually takes 1 to 2 hours. The time increases if, during sphenoidotomy, the doctor encounters polyps that are difficult to remove.

What complications can occur after sphenoidotomy?

After a sphenoidotomy, there is a risk of bleeding, infection, and damage to surrounding structures of the face or brain. In addition, many experience discomfort in the maxillary sinuses.

However, with the correct technique for performing sphenoidotomy and following all medical recommendations, the risk of severe complications is minimized.

When can I return to normal life after surgery?

Recovery time after sphenoidotomy is individual for each patient. Many return to daily activities within 1-2 weeks after surgery. Full recovery takes up to 4-6 weeks.

You can sign up for a sphenoidotomy procedure on the sinuses in our clinic (Moscow) on the website, through the application form, or by phone. Check the price of the service with the center manager.

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Sharoyko Marina Vladimirovna
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Kochetkova (Minavnina) Yulia Vladimirovna
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Lopatin Andrew Stanislavovich
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Andrew Stanislavovich
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Portnyagina Maria Pavlovna
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Maria Pavlovna
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Kaspranskaya Galina Rustemovna
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Budeikina Liliya Sergeevna
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Kornienko Roman Anatolievich
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Roman Anatolievich
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Budnitskaya Elena Vasilievna
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Magomed Akhmedovich
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Putkaradze Ekaterina Iosifovnz
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Ekaterina Iosifovnz
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Polivoda Anna Mikhailovna
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Malyavina Ulyana Stanislavovna
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Ulyana Stanislavovna
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Latysheva Elena Nikolaevna
Experience 16 years
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Elena Nikolaevna
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Krasnosheeva Ekaterina Alexandrovna
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Gergiev Vladimir Felixovich
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Gergiev
Vladimir Felixovich
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Babakhanyan Anna Mikhailovna
Experience 34 years
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A very good doctor! I've solved my ear problem!
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This is a real Doctor who is passionate about her profession and understands that this is her vocation! I am very glad that I met her on my way to the hospital, because she not only cured me, but also solved a long-standing question regarding the need for surgery. Thank you so much for your professionalism and sincere involvement in the patient's problems!
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