Dissolvable stent after endoscopic sinus surgery. Does it hurt when the surgeon takes it out?

Question

I had endoscopic sinus surgery done on Thursday and told that I have a dissolvable stent that needs to come out. Does it hurt when the surgeon takes it out or is it more discomort?

James Chan, MD · Answer

Dissolvable stents do not need to be removed in general.  They will naturally dissolve with routine saline rinses.  Your surgeon will evaluate your nose and sinuses in follow up and determine the degree of suctioning that is necessary.  Occassionally if the stents are causing exuberant crusting or infection, they can be removed before they dissolve.  Discuss this with your surgeon.

A. Joshua Zimm, MD · Answer

The stent removal is usually accompanied at the time of a sinus cleaning or debridement.  There is usually some mild discomfort, but it is otherwise well tolerated.  Best of luck.

Paul Scolieri, MD · Answer

Often dissolvable stents are left in place.  However, if the stents become overly crusted and cause obstruction and discomfort, they may be removed. The decision as to whether to leave the stents in place or remove them should be made within 2 weeks after surgery.  There may be some discomfort with stent removal, particularly if the stents have a significant amount of adherent debris.

Dissolvable stent after endoscopic sinus surgery. Does it hurt when the surgeon takes it out?

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Dissolvable stent after endoscopic sinus surgery. Does it hurt when the surgeon takes it out?

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Sinus Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.