FESS Surgery with Splint Care
Hello everyone. I’m a 23-year-old currently on the mend after treatment for nasopharyngeal cancer. I’m not on any medications at the moment. I’m scheduled to undergo Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) soon, during which they will place splints in my nasal passages for about 2 to 3 weeks. I can’t shake the anxiety surrounding this procedure, particularly concerning the potential pain and the challenge of keeping the splints in place. My doctors stressed the importance of leaving them in for the designated period, as failing to do so could compromise the success of the surgery. My boyfriend reassures me that I shouldn’t stress, but I find it difficult to remain calm. I’m reaching out to see if any medical professionals have insights regarding this surgery. Could you describe what I might expect during the procedure and how painful it may be on a scale from 1 to 10? Additionally, how intense is the discomfort after the operation? I’m also curious about how manageable it will be to maintain the splints for the required time. Are there any strategies or advice you could share to help ease my experience? Lastly, will I receive opioids or any other pain management medications to assist with the post-surgical pain? Thank you for your assistance!
Answers (1)
3/20/2025, 2:20:45 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's completely understandable to feel anxious about your upcoming Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS), especially given your recent health history. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect, how to manage pain and discomfort, and maintain your nasal splints effectively.
Main Points:
- Expect moderate pain during and after the surgery, but effective pain management strategies should help.
- You will need to care for the nasal splints for 2 to 3 weeks; it's manageable with the right approach.
- Discuss pain management options with your healthcare provider before the procedure.
Explanation:
FESS Surgery Overview: FESS is performed to clear blocked sinus passages. During the procedure, your surgeon will use a thin, flexible camera (endoscope) to access your sinuses. You can expect some discomfort during the surgery itself; however, the team will provide anesthesia to minimize pain. On a pain scale from 1 to 10, many patients report the during-surgery discomfort around a 3 to 5, due to sedation and local anesthesia.
Post-Surgery Expectations: After the procedure, the discomfort levels typically range from 4 to 6 due to swelling and blood in the nasal area. Expect some nasal congestion and mild bleeding. Your doctor will discuss a pain management plan with you, which may include non-opioid medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, although stronger pain relievers may be prescribed if necessary.
Next Steps:
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Pain Management: Speak to your healthcare provider about your concerns and ask for a specific pain management plan. They might prescribe medications to help you manage any discomfort effectively.
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Nasal Splint Care: To manage the splints:
- Follow any specific care instructions provided by your surgeon, including how to clean your nostrils gently.
- Use a saline spray regularly to keep your nasal passages moist, reducing discomfort.
- Avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting to help ensure the splints stay in place.
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Mindfulness Techniques: Practice deep breathing or mindfulness exercises to help reduce anxiety before and after your surgery. Keeping a distraction like music or an audiobook handy can also help you feel more comfortable.
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Support System: Lean on your boyfriend and close family or friends for support. Having someone with you can ease anxiety and assist with any immediate post-operative needs.
Remember, it's perfectly normal to feel anxious before such a procedure. Reach out to your medical team if you have further questions or need more reassurance—they are there to support you through your recovery process. Your focus should be on healing and taking it one step at a time.
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