WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What do I need to know about a nasal polypectomy? A nasal polypectomy is done to remove polyps from your nasal or sinus cavity. How do I prepare for a nasal polypectomy? Your healthcare provider will talk to you about how to prepare for surgery. He may tell you not to eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your surgery. You may need to stop taking blood thinners, aspirin, or NSAIDs such as ibuprofen up to 4 weeks before surgery. He will tell you what medicines to take or not take on the day of your surgery. You will need someone to drive you home after the surgery. What will happen during surgery? You will be given medicine to keep you relaxed or asleep and free from pain during surgery. Your healthcare provider will place an endoscope through your nostrils and into your nose and sinuses. An endoscope is a thin tube with a magnifying lens, light, and camera. He will use small tools to remove the polyps in your nasal cavity. He may also have to remove swollen tissue in your sinuses that may be blocking your airway. Your healthcare provider may place packing in your nose to help stop bleeding and catch drainage. What are the risks of a nasal polypectomy? You may bleed more than expected. You will have swelling in your sinuses that can increase your risk of a sinus infection. You may leak spinal fluid from the roof of your nose. You may have changes in your vision. Your polyps may return. Repeated return of nasal polyps may cause you to have open surgery of your sinuses. |