[Comparison of two application forms for isotonic sodium-chloride solution in postoperative sinus-surgery wound care].

BACKGROUND

The recommended postoperative care after sinus-surgery is based on gentle removal of crusts, the regular moistening of the endonasal mucosa, and the application of ointments. The efficacy and the compliance of two different methods of mucosal irrigation are described in a patients series.

METHODS

In a randomised study 50 patients who had undergone endoscopic sinus-surgery, 24 patients using a nasal spray and 20 patients using manual irrigation were reviewed. The endonasal degree of obstruction was videotaped at four different locations (nasal floor, middle meatus, maxillary sinus ostium, ethmoidal system) on two different examinations.

RESULTS

The only significantly reduced grade of obstruction was found in the ethmoidal system in the group using nasal spray. The results in the other locations showed no difference comparing both irrigation methods. The acception rate was higher in the group of nasal spray users.

CONCLUSIONS

Nasal spray seems to be superior to manual irrigation in regard to postoperative wound conditioning, handling, and hygienic aspects.