Early Saline Irrigation to Decrease Post-operative Endoscopic Debridement

Early Saline Irrigation to Decrease Post-operative Endoscopic Debridement

Nasal saline is a common treatment adjunct in the post-operative setting for endoscopic sinus surgery. However, the ideal timing and quantity of irrigation in the early post-operative period remains unknown. Proposed benefits of early, large volume irrigation include removal and softening of crusts, resulting in improved mucociliary clearance. The potential benefit of early large volume saline irrigation on post-operative day three to ease or reduce the need for early post-operative debridement has not been studied.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adult patients
• Diagnosis of CRS with or without polyposis
• Undergoing bilateral endoscopic sinus surgery
• Availability of pre-operative CT paranasal sinuses

Exclusion Criteria:

Patients with diagnosis of:

• Primary ciliary dyskinesia
• Immunodeficiency
• Cystic fibrosis