Improvement of quality of life after septoplasties and endonasal sinus surgery

Abstract

Introduction: Nasal obstruction with and without chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is associated with impaired quality of life. Therefore, the long-term improvement of the quality of life and the prevention of recurrences are major goals. The aim of our study was to investigate the quality of life before and after septoplasty (SPL) or FESS. Method(s): A total of 101 patients (40 , 60 , range: 18 - 88 years), 43 with SPL and 58 with FESS (47 with CRSwNP) were evaluated. Patients completed the validated SNOT-20 one day preoperatively and approximately three months postoperatively. In addition, the olfactory function was verified preoperatively with the help of the Sniffin Sticks. In all patients with CRS, the LundMacKay score was determined preoperatively by means of CT. Result(s): The quality of life in the SNOT-20 improved significantly in patients that had undergone SPL as well as FESS after 3 months (p < 0.001). Existing allergic rhinitis had no significant impact on quality of life. The level of the LundMacKay score correlated with stronger primary nasal symptoms pre- and postoperatively. The olfactory function showed no significant difference preoperatively in patients with and without polyposis nasi (p = 0.25). CRSwNP was associated with more severe primary nasal symptoms (p = 0.008), a good olfactory function in CRSwNP with fewer primary nasal symptoms (p = 0.017). Conclusion(s): In our study population, surgery significantly improved the quality of life. For surgical decision making, thus for a good postoperative outcome, preoperative diagnostics and specific individual indication as well as follow-up care is indispensable and should include the routine monitoring of the quality of life with validated questionnaires.