Safety and Efficacy of Biodegradable Nasopore Nasal Packing In Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

Abstract

Background: Nasal packing is often used after functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS). Various non-absorbable agents are used but these packs can be uncomfortable and cause pain and bleeding on removal. Increasingly, biodegradable nasal packs are being used and have shown promising effects on post-operative bleeding and healing after FESS. Aim: We evaluate the safety and efficacy of biodegradable Nasopore®(polyurethane glycol) in FESS, particularly in the day-case setting. Methods: A retrospective chart review of 100 consecutive patients receiving Nasopore following FESS. Results: Our patients had chronic rhinosinusitis not responding to medical therapy and the extent of the surgery was determined by the extent of disease. Procedures performed in addition to FESS included septoplasty, trimming of the inferior turbinates and polypectomy. Approximately half of patients were discharged home the same day and post-operative complications were minimal. Only two patients developed post-operative bleeding, and four reported post-operative sinus infection requiring oral antibiotics. One patient developed minor intranasal adhesions of no functional significance. Conclusions: Nasopore is a safe and effective option after FESS. It is associated with minimal discomfort, no pain on removal and few post-operative complications. Nasopore is useful in achieving day-case FESS.