Why Does Scar Tissue Form 2 Years After a Successful Sinus Surgery?

Question

sinus surgery 2 1/2 years ago - significantly reduced frequency of sinus infections/bronchitis. I have had three sinus infections since Sept with the most recent for 5 weeks despite daily sinus washes, decongestant and qnasal. Last week an ENT said some scar tissue formed at the opening of the sinuses. I had a ct scan today and will see the ENT next week again to discuss possible surgery. Why would scar tissue form after 2 1/2 years. Will more scar tissue form after surgery to remove tissue

Frank Scaccia, MD, FACS · Answer

My guess is either you didn't have a complete sinus surgery the first time or the scarring that occurred soon after wasn't noticed and corrected. Sometimes it takes a while for new symptoms to appear after the new scarring occurred.   Post op evaluation with frequent debridements and treatment with steroid irrigations are key to maintaining a good result  I follow my patients until they are completely healed.

Mark Loury, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Most scar tissue is apparent in the first couple months after surgery. It is very unusual to see late scarring. The most frequent problem leading to recurrent infections after surgery is either incomplete ethmoidectomy or the natural openings into the maxillary sinuses were not restored at the first procedure. Less than 5% of maxillary openings scar down assuming they were done correctly the first time. Additional scarring with each additional procedure is,possible.

Why Does Scar Tissue Form 2 Years After a Successful Sinus Surgery?

Answers (2)