The microdébrider and its complications in endoscopic surgery for nasal polyposis

Mustafa Cenk Ecevit1, Semih Sutay, Taner Kemal Erdag

  • 1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey. cenk.ecevit@deu.edu.tr

Abstract

Insights

The microdébrider is a safe tool for endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS), even for nasal polyposis. This study found acceptable complication rates, with disease severity being a key factor in outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Rhinology
  • Surgical Innovation

Background:

  • Endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) is a common treatment for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and nasal polyposis.
  • The microdébrider is an instrument increasingly used in ESS to improve surgical outcomes.
  • Assessing the complication rate of the microdébrider is crucial for patient safety and surgical technique refinement.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the complication rate associated with microdébrider use in endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS).
  • To compare complication rates between patients with nasal polyposis and those with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) without nasal polyps undergoing ESS with a microdébrider.

Main Methods:

  • A retrospective study analyzed complications from 275 ESS procedures using a microdébrider in 139 patients.
  • Patients included those with nasal polyposis and CRS without nasal polyps.
  • Complication rates were calculated for both patient groups.

Main Results:

  • The nasal polyposis group had mean Lund-Mackay scores of 9.2 ± 2.28, while the CRS group had scores of 4.8 ± 1.54.
  • One major complication (cerebrospinal fistula) occurred, with a major complication rate of 0.5% in the nasal polyposis group.
  • Minor complication rates were 11.8% for nasal polyposis and 4% for CRS.

Conclusions:

  • Microdébrider use in ESS is associated with acceptable complication rates, even in high-risk cases like nasal polyposis.
  • Key factors for reducing complications include anatomical knowledge, surgical experience, maintaining a bloodless field, and careful observation.
  • Disease severity is the primary determinant of the overall complication rate in ESS.