Sinusitis Research Articles

The sinus surgery completeness score: a radiological assessment of the extent of endoscopic sinus surgery.

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) often requires endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) for symptom control. However, there is currently a high reported revision rate. The introduction of biologics offers an alternative treatment, but patient criteria are ambiguous, particularly regarding the definition of "previous ESS." This study aims to introduce the Sinus Surgery Completeness Score (SSCS) to help evaluate the extent of ESS as well as evaluate the extent of sinus surgery in the study cohort. The SSCS was developed by expert rhinologists and anterior skull base surgeons and applied to computed tomography (CT) sinus scans of 41 CRS patients who underwent previous ESS. Inter-rater reliability was assessed, and statistical analysis was performed to correlate SSCS scores with Lund-Mackay (LM) and Sinonasal Outcome Test-22 (SNOT-22) scores. The SSCS demonstrated strong inter-rater reliability (Fleiss Kappa score 0.857). The mean time to complete the SCSS was 2.7min. Most patients had incomplete surgery with a mean SCSS of 7.40 (total 24) with no patients achieving a maximum score. The maxillary sinus was the most dissected subunit, with frontal and sphenoid sinuses being the least. Weak negative correlations were observed between the SSCS and LM and SNOT-22 scores. The SSCS is a useful tool for assessing the completeness of sinus surgery, offering a standardized approach to evaluating surgical outcomes. While further research is needed to elucidate the relationship between surgical completeness and patient outcomes, the SSCS holds promise in guiding patient management including informing decisions regarding eligibility for biologic therapy.

Real-World Evaluation of Dupilumab in the Long-Term Management of Eosinophilic Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps: A Focus on IL-4 and IL-13 Receptor Blockade

Background and Objectives: Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a complex inflammatory condition of the nasal passages that severely impairs quality of life. Type 2 CRS is characterized by eosinophilic inflammation, driven by cytokines like IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13. These cytokines are key to CRS pathogenesis and contribute to a heavy disease burden, especially with comorbidities. This study assessed dupilumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting IL-4 and IL-13 signaling, to evaluate its efficacy in reducing the disease burden in patients with CRS with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). Materials and Methods: The patients received subcutaneous dupilumab for 42 weeks. The outcomes included Nasal Polyp Score (NPS); Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22), Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores; total IgE; and olfactory function. Results: Significant improvements were observed across the NPS and SNOT-22, NRS, and VAS scores after 42 weeks. Their total IgE levels were reduced, though a transient increase in peripheral eosinophilia appeared at 16 weeks. The patients also reported substantial improvements in olfactory function and high satisfaction with the treatment, supporting dupilumab’s potential in reducing both symptom severity and inflammation in CRSwNP. Conclusions: These results indicate that dupilumab may be an effective treatment for CRSwNP, offering significant symptom relief, improved olfactory function, and enhanced quality of life. High satisfaction levels suggest that dupilumab may provide therapeutic advantages over the conventional CRS treatments, though further studies are warranted to confirm its long-term benefits.

Inter-societal Survey on the topical nasal treatments in Italy.

Topical nasal therapy represents a widespread opportunity to treat upper airway diseases. As a result, specialists in different areas (mainly ENT, pediatrics, and allergology) and general practitioners prescribe intranasal compounds. However, a myriad of products and devices are available, as well as respiratory disorders. Consequently, this matter is debatable, and no guideline organically addresses this issue. Considering these premises, a restricted panel of qualified experts promoted an initial multidisciplinary survey involving only Fellows of some Scientific Societies belonging to ENT, pediatrics, and allergology areas. The survey included a series of queries concerning practical aspects of topical nasal therapy (treated disease, devices, and agents). A web platform served to participate in this survey. Each participant anonymously completed the questionnaire. Four hundred and forty-five doctors participated in the survey. There was a homogeneous distribution in Italy. Most participants were pediatricians (37%), followed by allergologists (31%) and ENT specialists (24%). Almost all doctors (95%) used topical nasal therapy. The most common diseases topically treated were allergic rhinitis (79%), chronic rhinosinusitis (73%), and non-allergic rhinitis. The most popular devices were pre-dosed spray both for nasal irrigation (67%) and nebulization (66%). Corticosteroids (67%), isotonic saline (63%), hyaluronic acid, hypertonic saline, and antihistamines (39%) were the most common agents used for intranasal therapy. Combined antihistamine/corticosteroids were also commonly used (38%). The most frequent schedule was the cyclic treatment. Most doctors (89%) claim they adequately spend time educating patients on this matter. In conclusion, topical nasal therapy is commonly used to manage upper respiratory diseases. However, the disagreement about some issues requires greater knowledge of the topics and the need to develop new studies, including pragmatic ones.

The efficacy of a nitric oxide-releasing formulation on nares isolated Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in porcine wound infection model

BackgroundThe colonization of Staphylococcus aureus (SA) acquired in nosocomial infections may develop acute and chronic infections such as Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in the nose. As a commensal microorganism with the ability to form a biofilm, SA can dwell on the skin, nostrils, throat, perineum, and axillae of healthy humans. Nitric oxide (NO) is an unstable gas with various molecular functions and has antimicrobial properties which are converted into many potential treatments.MethodsMethicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus MRSA BAA1686 isolated from nasal infection was used in a porcine wound infection model. Deep partial-thickness wounds (10mm x 7mm x 0.5mm) were made on three animals using a specialized electrokeratome. All wounds were inoculated and then covered with polyurethane film dressings for biofilm formation. After 48 hours, three wounds were recovered from each animal for baseline enumeration. The remaining wounds were randomly assigned to six treatment groups and treated once daily. The treatment groups are as follows: NO topical ointments concentrations of 0.3, 0.9 and 1.8%, Vehicle Ointment, Mupirocin 2%, and Untreated Control. Microbiological recoveries were conducted on day 4 and day 7.ResultsThe greatest efficacy observed from the NO formulations against MRSA BAA1686 was the 1.8% concentration. This agent was able to reduce more than 99% of bacterial counts when compared to Baseline, Vehicle Ointment, and Untreated Control wounds on both assessment days. Mupirocin 2% was the overall best treatment against MRSA BAA1686 on both assessment days, with a significant reduction (p ≤ 0.05) of 4.70 ± 0.13 Log CFU/mL from day 4 to day 7.ConclusionsOverall, the positive control Mupirocin 2% was the most effective in eliminating MRSA BAA1686 throughout the study. This experiment demonstrated a downward trend from the highest concentration of NO topical ointment formulations to the lowest concentrations on both assessment days (0.3% - 1.8%). Out of all NO topical ointments, the highest concentration (1.8%) was the most effective with the potential to be an alternative treatment against a MRSA nasal strain biofilm.

Successful Primary Oral Isavuconazole Therapy in Acute Invasive Fungal Sinusitis with Triple Fungal Species and Multiple Comorbidities

Successful Primary Oral Isavuconazole Therapy in Acute Invasive Fungal Sinusitis with Triple Fungal Species and Multiple Comorbidities

Cross-border collaboration, communication, and research frontiers on biologics in chronic rhinosinusitis from 2004 to 2023

ObjectiveBiologics are considered as a promising novel treatment option for patients with chronic rhinosinusitis who failed with the standard of care (medical therapy and surgical interventions). This bibliometric analysis was performed to explore cross-border collaboration, communication, and research frontiers on biologics in chronic rhinosinusitis.MethodsOriginal research publications on biologics in chronic rhinosinusitis were retrieved from the Science Citation Index-Expanded (SCI-E) database in the Web of Science Core Collection between 2004 and 2023. Using CiteSpace and R software, the country/region, author, institution, journal, reference, and keywords were extracted to analyze the research focus and global trends in this field.ResultsResearch articles exhibited a consistent rising trend from 2004 to 2023, especially the period between 2020 and 2023. Most articles were published by authors from the USA. The USA was the most cited country, enjoying the most active cooperation with other countries/regions. Bachert C owned the most publications and collaborations. Ghent University and Karolinska Institute had the most collaborations with other institutions. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology and Allergy published the most articles and were the most co-cited journals. Research frontiers on biologics in chronic rhinosinusitis would focus on efficacy, quality of life, safety, children, management, etc.ConclusionsThis bibliometric analysis displayed the overall situation and global trend on biologics in chronic rhinosinusitis. The visualization analysis of publications could assist researchers rapidly in understanding the hotspots and trends. Further research is warranted to determine the long-term effects and side effects of biologics in chronic rhinosinusitis.

The Lamella Ostium Extent Mucosa (LOEM) system: a new classification and pilot study for endoscopic sinus surgery

Abstract Purpose This study proposes the Lamella Ostium Extent Mucosa (LOEM) system as a compact and user-friendly classification for endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS), based on surgical bone extension and mucosal management, aiming to resolve inconsistencies in describing surgical techniques and extension levels, and to enhance comparability of outcomes in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Methods LOEM uses a lettering system representing a specific topographical level: L identifies the lamellae, O the ostia, E the opening of the sinus walls, and M the mucosal approach. Eleven CRS surgical cases were independently evaluated by seven rhinologists following a Delphi method in two consecutive rounds. Consensus was assessed using Cohen's kappa. Results A substantial agreement was found among the experts (κ = 0.77) in the first round, although the M item only showed fair agreement (κ = 0.37). Clarifications for this item were given in the second round, after which, the overall agreement increased to κ = 0.81 and to κ = 0.79 for the M item. A decrease in agreement from substantial to moderate for O and E items in the second round was found. Test–retest analysis showed an almost perfect agreement (92.96%, κ = 0.82). In this study, a web-based app is provided to assist with the regular use of the LOEM system. Conclusions The LOEM system provides a compact, comprehensive code for ESS, integrating anatomical and functional aspects to represent surgical techniques described so far. This system may be suitable for facilitating communication between surgeons and collecting robust labeled data, hopefully leading to further standardization and validation of surgical approaches in future CRS studies.

The anti-inflammatory role of therapeutic ultrasound and low-level laser in chronic rhinosinusitis: A fractional exhaled nitric oxide outcome hypothesis

Chronic rhinosinusitis is defined as a complex of disorders whose main feature is nasal and paranasal sinus mucosal inflammation for at least three months. Inflammation plays a key role in chronic rhinosinusitis. Fractional exhaled nitric oxide is used to monitor eosinophilic airway inflammation in the human lower airways. Fractional exhaled nitric oxide levels are paradoxically low in some chronic rhinosinusitis patients. This has been attributed to sinus ostia obstruction. However, a recent study has demonstrated that fractional exhaled nitric oxide levels could serve as a chronic rhinosinusitis inflammation biomarker independent of lower airway inflammatory disease and could be used as a treatment response biomarker. Therapeutic ultrasound and low-level laser therapy have been used in chronic rhinosinusitis management. Through a variety of mechanisms, ultrasound enhances bacterial killing. Low level laser therapy increases nitric oxide release and ATP levels. It also reduces inflammation and accelerates tissue repair. Fractional exhaled nitric oxide levels could be used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory actions of therapeutic ultrasound and low-level laser therapy in chronic rhinosinusitis patients. A hypothesis that fractional expired nitric oxide measurements could be a useful biomarker to evaluate their potential anti-inflammatory mechanisms and monitor their treatment efficacy is proposed. This could contribute to a better understanding of these therapies in chronic rhinosinusitis management. An improved understanding of treatment efficacy could lead to improved management strategies.

Trends in Korean Medicine Utilization for Chronic Rhinosinusitis Using National Health Insurance Service Data (2012-2022)

Objectives: Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is often treated with Korean medicine (KM), but comprehensive utilization data is lacking. This study aimed to analyze the patterns of KM use for CRS using National Health Insurance Service data from 2012 to 2022.Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of claims data for CRS patients (International Classification of Diseases code: J32) who visited KM institutions. We examined demographic characteristics, visiting patterns, medical costs, treatment modalities, and concurrent use of Western medicine.Results: Of 138,647 patients (52.2% male, mean age 23.8 years), 41.8% were under 10 years old. Annual patient numbers ranged from 14,595-17,242 (2012-2019), decreasing sharply from 2020. Average costs increased 5% annually. Acupuncture was the most common treatment (661,455, 50.5%). The most frequently prescribed insured herbal medicine was Hyeonggaeyeongyo-tang (48,494, 48.5%). Notably, 87.0% (120,610 patients) concurrently received Western medical treatment, indicating a prevalent integrative approach in CRS management. 77.8% received their initial diagnosis at Western institutions.Conclusion: This comprehensive analysis of KM utilization for CRS in Korea reveals significant patterns in patient demographics, treatment preferences, and integration with Western medicine. The high rate of concurrent KM and Western treatment highlights the integrative nature of CRS management in Korea, providing valuable insights for health policy and clinical practice.

The impact of primary immunodeficiency on the severity of chronic rhinosinusitis

BackgroundPrimary immunodeficiency has been associated with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). However, limited evidence exists on how primary immunodeficiencies affect the severity of CRS. ObjectiveTo assess how primary IgA and/or IgG immunodeficiency affects the severity of CRS. MethodsAdult patients at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston with IgA and/or IgG deficiency (group A) or normal IgA and IgG (group B) were queried between January 1, 2016 and December 31, 2022. Other immunodeficiencies were excluded. The groups were analyzed for prevalence of CRS based on ICD-10 codes. The groups were matched based on demographics and comorbidities. Patients with CRS were analyzed for ≥3 acute rhinosinusitis (ARS) episodes, mean lifetime ARS episodes, and mean ARS episodes per year (all with or without antibiotic treatment). Additional analyses included need for functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) and mean lifetime FESS procedures based on CPT codes. A logistic regression analysis was then performed over the same parameters. ResultsA total of 346 patients had IgA and/or IgG deficiency (group A), and 11,438 patients had normal IgA and IgG (group B). CRS prevalence was higher in group A than group B (12 % vs. 5 %; p < 0.001). Group A had more patients with ≥3 ARS episodes, higher mean lifetime ARS episodes, and ARS episodes per year, though none of these findings were statistically significant. There was no difference in need for FESS or mean lifetime FESS procedures. ConclusionCRS prevalence is higher in patients with IgA and/or IgG deficiency, but IgA and/or IgG immunodeficiency does not predispose patients to ARS episodes or predict need for FESS.

Correlation between nasal mucosal microbiota diversity and the pathogenesis and prognosis of chronic sinusitis

Objective:To analyze the correlation between nasal mucosal microbiota diversity and the pathogenesis and prognosis of chronic sinusitis. Methods:A total of 80 patients with chronic sinusitis（CRS） admitted to Second Affiliated Hospital of Suzhou University were selected as the research group, and 80 patients with chronic dacryocystitis and nasal septum deviation without sinus inflammation admitted to our hospital during the same period were selected as the control group, nasal secretory specimens were collected under nasal endoscopic guidance by nasal swab, and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization classification time mass spectrometry, anaerobic bacterial culture and common bacterial culture were performed to compare the differences in nasal mucosal flora between groups. Patients with chronic sinusitis were followed up for 6 months, and nasal secretions were collected again to detect microflora, and the patients were divided into relapse group（21 cases） and non-recurrence group（59 cases） according to whether the patients had relapse. Compare the diversity of nasal microbiota between groups. Results:There were no significant differences in mean relative abundance（MRA） between the two groups of preoperative phylum Microbacterium verrucobacterium, Cyanobacterium phylum, Phylum Laubia mlaus, Porphyromonas species, Enterococcus species, Fusobacterium species, Enterobacter species, Enterobacter species, Erythrobacterium species, Ralstonia species, Bacteroides and Streptococcus species（P>0.05）. The MRA of Acidobacterium, Proteobacteria, Actinomycetes MRA, Moraxia, Cyanobacterium, Corynebacterium and Staphylococcus were significantly lower than those of the control group（P<0.05）, and the MRA of Escher-Shigella species, Fusobacterium, Bacteroides, Firmicutes, Neisseria, Pseudomonas, Haemophilus and Lactobacillus was significantly higher than that of the control group（P<0.05）, and there was no significant difference in MRA at the level of nasal flora and genus before and after surgery in the relapsed group（P>0.05）. The MRA of Bacteroides after surgery was significantly lower in the non-recurrent group than that before surgery（P<0.05）, the MRA of Corynebacterium and Actinomycetes was higher significantly than that of preoperative（P<0.05）, and there was no significant difference in MRA of other species and phylum（P>0.05）. Conclusion:The onset of CRS is related to nasal mucosal dysbacteria, and whether the dysbacteriosis improves after surgery is correlated with the prognosis of patients.

Updates in the management of chronic rhinosinusitis.

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a very common reason for presentation to a general practitioner. It can be very difficult to manage and can have a significant effect on the quality of life of patients. The objective of this article is to providean up-to-date review of the pathophysiology, diagnosis and multimodal approach to management ofthis chronic condition. Biologic agents are becoming increasingly common in Australia for themanagement of CRS with polyposis. Thisreview includes an overview of these biologic agents and highlights their indications, efficacy and place in the management ofCRS.

Expert consensus on the diagnosis and treatment of chronic sinusitis in children

Objective:Pediatric chronic sinusitis （CRS） is a common disease within the field of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery. Due to the immaturity of sinus development and immune competence in children, its etiology and pathophysiology are complex, and its clinical features and outcomes differ significantly from those in adult patients. Currently, there are issues in the diagnosis and treatment of pediatric CRS, particularly in areas such as antibiotic use and surgical interventions, owing to a lack of sufficient attention. In recognition of this, the Chinese Rhinopathy Research Cooperation Group developed this expert consensus based on a systematic review of the latest literatures from both domestic and international sources, with reference to the latest evidence-based medical evidence worldwide, and in combination with their own clinical experience. The consensus covers various aspects including epidemiology, predisposing factors, pathophysiology, diagnosis and differential diagnosis, as well as treatment strategies such as medical therapy and surgical intervention. It aims to standardize the clinical diagnosis and treatment of pediatric CRS, improve clinical efficacy and patient satisfaction, reduce clinical expenditures, and decrease the occurrence of adverse reactions.

Evaluation of balloon sinuplasty for the treatment of pediatric chronic rhinosinusitis.

This year marks 10 years from the publication of the clinical consensus statement on pediatric chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Balloon sinuplasty did not meet criteria for consensus at that time because there was insufficient evidence on its efficacy and safety. The purpose of this review is to summarize the current evidence on balloon sinuplasty treatment for pediatric CRS. Balloon sinuplasty is not a cost-effective measure compared to adenoidectomy and endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). In the pediatric population, benefits include short operative time, reduced tissue manipulation, and potential for decreased antibiotic courses. Alternatively, balloon dilation has increased equipment costs and there is a lack of robust prospective data that fully elucidates balloon sinuplasty's role in the management of pediatric CRS. Pediatric otolaryngologists should continue to perform first-line adenoidectomy and consider ESS based on imaging and other validated clinical scoring systems. Balloon sinuplasty has not yet been proven as an effective treatment for pediatric CRS and further large-scale investigations are required to overcome its lack of cost-effectiveness.

Choanal atresia: a review of contemporary treatment strategies.

Choanal atresia (CA) is a congenital nasal airway anomaly that, when present bilaterally, requires urgent surgical intervention. Surgical technique has evolved since its inception with most practices now favoring an endoscopic repair. Restenosis requiring revision surgery is a frequent complication, occurring in as many as 50% of cases. This review aims to highlight the most common surgical approaches, techniques used to prevent restenosis, and newer adjuncts to surgery that may improve outcomes. Bioabsorbable, steroid-eluting stents were first developed for the adult chronic rhinosinusitis population but have been adapted for use in choanal atresia since 2017. The existing literature consists of multiple case series and one case-control study comparing these stents to traditional stents. To date, there have been no reports of restenosis or stent-related complications with these newer products. Choanal atresia remains a difficult surgical pathology for which sustainable surgical results can be challenging. There is reason for optimism in bioabsorbable, steroid-eluting stents as an adjunct to CA repair if future studies expound upon their safety and efficacy.

A Rare Presentation of IgG4-Related Sinusitis With Chronic Nasal Obstruction and Headache: A Case Report and Literature Review

IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a systemic inflammatory condition characterized by tissue infiltration with IgG4-positive plasma cells and a tendency to form mass-like lesions in various organs. IgG4-related sinusitis, although a relatively rare manifestation of IgG4- RD, significantly impacts the paranasal sinuses. A 52-year-old man presented with persistent rhinorrhea, nasal obstruction, and headaches. He was diagnosed with IgG4-RD involving the bilateral nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses, submandibular glands, lacrimal glands, and parotid glands. We recently managed a case of IgG4-related sinusitis, which was successfully diagnosed and treated. This condition represents a distinct subset of chronic rhinosinusitis, with unique pathophysiological and clinical features. Accurate diagnosis and effective management of IgG4-related sinusitis require a high index of suspicion and a multidisciplinary approach.

Hub genes, diagnostic model, and predicted drugs related to ferroptosis in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.

Significant progress has been made in the pathogenesis of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). However, the relationship between chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) and ferroptosis, as well as its underlying molecular mechanism, remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between CRSwNP and ferroptosis and identify key gene associated with ferroptosis that could impact the diagnosis and treatment of CRS. To achieve this, gene expression profiles containing CRSwNP and CRSsNP samples were obtained from the GEO database. In addition, from the FerrDb V2 database, we acquired 2 sets of genes that are connected with ferroptosis, giving us a combined number of 260 genes associated with this particular biological process. Differential analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) were performed on nasal tissue samples from GSE36830, leading to the identification of 1 key gene related to ferroptosis and CRS. Using stepwise regression and logistic regression analysis, we constructed a diagnostic model for CRS using ALOX15. The AUC value demonstrates that the model exhibits a strong diagnostic performance. Furthermore, the connection between immune cell infiltration in the samples and hub gene was explored, suggesting the potential significance of the hub gene in the immune response to CRS. Finally, Five drugs targeting a central gene were identified from the DrugBank database, and a few of them have exhibited efficacy in the treatment of CRS or associated ailments. In conclusion, this model holds potential for supporting the diagnosis of CRS patients, while the central gene identified may contribute to a better understanding of CRS development and drug treatment.

Chronic rhinosinusitis was neither a risk nor a protective factor during the COVID-19 pandemic

There are various views in the literature regarding the influence of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) as acomorbidity on the occurrence of COVID-19 disease. Did CRS prevent or promote infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus2 (SARS-CoV-2) during the coronavirus pandemic? We conducted aretrospective case-control study with 252adult CRS patients who underwent sinus surgery between 2020 and 2023 and anon-CRS control group; both groups were comparable in terms of age and gender. The association between ahistory of COVID‑19 and CRS according to its phenotype and endotype was examined using cross tables and chi-square tests. We also analyzed self-reported and measured olfactory ability. Additionally, patients were asked about continuous preoperative use of inhaled corticosteroids. There was no association between CRS and COVID‑19. This applied both to CRS patients with or without nasal polyps (CRSwNP or CRSsNP) and to endotyping according to tissue eosinophilia. The majority of operated CRS patients were CRSwNP patients, predominantly male and younger compared to CRSsNP patients. CRSwNP presented eosinophilia 2.8times more frequently than CRSsNP. CRSsNP patients had better reported and measured olfactory ability compared to CRSwNP patients. The measured olfactory ability of the CRS patients with COVID‑19 did not differ from that of CRS patients without C‑19. Preoperative use of inhaled corticosteroids was more frequent among CRSwNP patients than CRSsNP patients. Chronic rhinosinusitis was neither arisk nor aprotective factor for COVID‑19.

Impact of asthma severity on surgical outcomes in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis comorbid with asthma

BackgroundPatients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps comorbid with asthma often experience poor outcomes following endoscopic sinus surgery. ObjectiveThis study was designed to evaluate the impact of asthma severity on the long-term outcomes after surgery in these patients. MethodsEighty-three patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps comorbid with asthma who underwent endoscopic sinus surgery were prospectively enrolled in this study. Patients were classified into mild, moderate, and severe asthma groups based on their preoperative asthma severity. Clinical symptom scores, nasal endoscopy scores, and asthma control test results were recorded preoperatively, and at 1 year and 12 years postoperatively. ResultsSeventy-one patients completed the 12-year follow-up. All patients showed significant improvement in nasal symptom scores and nasal endoscopy scores. However, 48 of 71 (67.6%) patients experienced nasal polyp recurrence, and 22 (31.0%) of them underwent revision surgery. Patients in the severe asthma group had the highest rate of nasal polyp recurrence (P=0.02) and revision surgery (P=0.01), and the least improvement in smell disturbance (P=0.04) and general symptom (P=0.02) compared with the other asthma groups. ConclusionPreoperative asthma severity significantly influenced the outcome of endoscopic sinus surgery in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps comorbid with asthma, in whom endoscopic sinus surgery had a long-term beneficial effect.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the efficacy and safety of traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of rhinosinusitis.

Rhinosinusitis (RS), a common inflammatory disorder, adversely affects quality of life and can progress to serious complications without intervention. Conventional therapies, including antibiotics and corticosteroids, exhibit inherent limitations and risks. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), with its extensive historical use in RS management, remains understudied in contemporary evaluations. This systematic review evaluates the efficacy and safety of TCM in RS treatment, aiming to guide clinical decision-making. A systematic search was undertaken in Chinese and English databases, such as CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, SinoMed, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and other relevant databases, to gather randomized controlled trials of TCM for patients with RS from January 2014 to February 2024. Two researchers independently curated and synthesized data from eligible literature, conducted meta-analyses with ReviewManager 5.4.1, and assessed evidence quality via GRADEPro GDT. A total of 48 articles included 4490 patients, of which 2249 were control group and 2241 were in the experimental group. Meta-analytic outcomes revealed that the integration of TCM with western medicine conventional treatment significantly enhanced the total effective rate [risk ratio=1.20, 95% confidence interval (CI) (1.17, 1.23), P < 0.05] and yielded a notable reduction in Lund-Kennedy score [mean difference (MD)=-1.32, 95% CI (-1.72, -0.93), P < 0.05], Lund-Mackay score [MD=-1.13, 95% CI (-1.27, -1.00), P < 0.05], SNOT-20 score [MD=-3.02, 95% CI (-4.34, -1.69), P < 0.05], nasal congestion Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score [MD=-1.05, 95% CI (-1.65, -0.45), P < 0.05], runny nose VAS score [MD=-0.84, 95% CI (-1.13, -0.54), P < 0.05], headache VAS score [MD=-0.90, 95% CI (-1.45, -0.35), P < 0.05], olfactory impairment VAS score [MD=-1.43, 95% CI (-1.75, -1.11), P < 0.05], and total TCM syndrome score [standardized mean difference (SMD)=-1.78, 95% CI (-2.58, -0.97), P < 0.05]. Additionally, significant decreases were observed in levels of tumor necrosis factor-α [SMD=-2.14, 95% CI (-3.42, -0.87), P < 0.05] and interleukin-6 [SMD=-1.64, 95% CI (-2.08, -1.21), P < 0.05], with statistical significance achieved for all measured outcomes. Regarding safety considerations, an insignificant variance was observed between the 2 therapeutic approaches, with no statistically discernible difference (P > 0.05). Combining TCM with western medicine in RS treatment yields superior outcomes over western medicine alone, with enhanced efficacy, reduced nasal symptoms, and lower inflammation. Rigorous multicenter RCTs are warranted to affirm these advantages and bolster the evidence for TCM in RS management.