Chronic sinusitis might be a condition that is relatively resistant to treatment, as pointed out by MayoClinic.com. After the first lines of treatment, such as decongestants and nasal sprays, fail, endoscopic sinus surgery is an option that provides relief for many. Endoscopic sinus surgery involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera attached to it in order to explore the sinuses. Then, as need dictates, the surgeon may introduce tools to remove excess tissue or enlarge a narrow sinus opening. Several complications can be seen with sinus surgery.
Leakage of Cerebrospinal Fluid
The sinuses are located in proximity to two important structures: the brain and the eyes. The American Rhinologic Society reports that in very rare instances, the base of the brain may be breached by endoscopic sinus surgery. This is because the base of the skull forms the roof of two major sinuses: the ethmoid sinus and the sphenoid sinus. If the covering protective layer of the brain is injured, the liquid surrounding the brain, known as the cerebrospinal fluid, will leak into the sinuses and the nasal cavity. This protective layer also prevents bacteria from gaining access to the brain. Therefore, if this tear is not detected and repaired promptly, the patient may suffer from meningitis or infection of the tissues surrounding the brain.
Orbital Complications
According to a 1997 review article published in "The Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine," injury to the eye socket, medically known as the orbit, may occur during sinus surgery. While injury to the orbit may cause bleeding into the eye or air entry into the orbit, various structures can be injured during endoscopic sinus operation. The lacrimal duct can be damaged, leading to longstanding dryness of the affected eye. The muscles controlling the movement of the eye ball may also be damaged.
Loss of Eyesight
The most disastrous complication, however, is damage to the optic nerve, which could cause blindness. The study published in "The Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine" points out that loss of sight can also occur if extensive bleeding occurs, pushing the eyeball out and compressing the nerve responsible for vision.
