Evidence‐Based Long‐term Outcomes in ESS

Abstract

Objective: 1) Analyze appropriateness of endoscopic sinus surgery. 2) Understand the long-term results of endoscopic sinus surgery at an academic institution with an academic and private practice blend of patients using the Sino Nasal Outcome Test (“SNOT 22”) statistically validated tool. Method: Included consecutive patients undergoing sinus surgery at CSMC since January 2009 who were able to complete SNOT-22 prior to surgery. Three hundred fifty patients were included from 17 physicians. Patients mailed the postop form 3, 6, and 12 months following surgery. Patients ranged from 22 years to 67 years split between 220 females and 330 males. Results: The results were quite impressive for patients from immediate to long-term (12 month) postoperative results. The results were statistically significant in demonstrating an improvement of symptoms overall and in all 4 subcategories with a univariate analysis demonstrating P values of <.001. These results were very exciting due to the multi-cultural and varied nature of the patients ranging from tertiary care academic referrals to community otolaryngology patients. Conclusion: It was concluded that endoscopic sinus surgery was effective with results reaching statistical significance in demonstrating an improvement of symptoms overall and in all 4 sub-categories with a univariate analysis demonstrating P values of <.001. Scientific findings demonstrate that patients had major improvement scores 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery.