Predictors of olfactory improvement after endoscopic sinus surgery in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps

This study aimed to determine the predictors of olfactory improvement after endoscopic sinus surgery among patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.

This prospective cohort study included patients admitted to a university hospital between 2006 and 2012. Assessment using odour identification testing, a sinonasal symptom questionnaire, the Rhinosinusitis Disability Index and mucus biomarker levels was performed at various time points. Correlation of variables with identification score differences at six post-operative time points and at baseline was performed, followed by multiple linear regression to determine significant predictors at each of the six post-operative time points.

Baseline absence of acute sinusitis, elevated serpin F2 and anterior rhinorrhoea predict early olfactory improvement, whereas baseline allergic rhinitis predicts late olfactory improvement. Baseline odour identification score was the strongest predictor across all time points.

Patients with chronic rhinosinusitis and nasal polyps with worse disease or baseline olfactory function may benefit more from endoscopic sinus surgery in terms of olfactory improvement.