• Sinuses are air-filled spaces in bone of face and head connected to the nose.

• Inflammation in nose may block sinuses, causing infection (sinusitis).

• Triggers: common cold, allergies, smoking, environmental factors, nasal septal deviation, polyps.

• Symptoms: blocked nose, congestion, headache, loss of smell, runny nose, cough.

• If symptoms persist > 12 weeks despite medication, chronic sinusitis is diagnosed.

• CT scan confirms diagnosis and guides treatment planning.

• Surgery may be required when medications fail.

• FESS = Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

• Minimally invasive, done via nostrils (no cuts/stitches).

• Removes obstructing tissue and improves drainage.

• 70-90% success in symptom improvement.

• Procedure time: 45–90 mins, under general anesthesia.

• Usually no nasal packing unless needed for bleeding control.

• May use dissolvable packing in some cases.

• Minor bleeding common, major bleeding rare.

• Eye complications <1%, rare chance of vision issues or bruising.

• CSF leak 1/1000 risk.

• Risk of smell loss, dryness, adhesions, tearing.

• Sinusitis may recur, may need repeat surgery.

• Rest at home for at least a week.

• Return to work/activities in 10–14 days; 2+ weeks if heavy lifting involved.

• Smoking slows healing and increases bleeding/infection risks.

• Quitting improves recovery.