Complex Sinus Surgery and Image Guidance
For many people, sinus problems such as blockage, infections, or polyps can be managed with medication. But for others, symptoms persist and surgery becomes the best option. At Hampshire ENT Clinics, our consultants specialise in advanced sinus surgery, using the latest image-guided technology to provide safe, precise, and effective treatment.
When is Complex Sinus Surgery Needed?
Sinus surgery may be recommended if you have:
Chronic rhinosinusitis (blocked nose, discharge, facial pain lasting >12 weeks).
Nasal polyps causing persistent obstruction.
Recurrent acute sinus infections despite medical treatment.
Complicated sinus disease extending near the eye or brain.
Revision surgery when symptoms return after previous operations.
What Does Complex Sinus Surgery Involve?
Modern sinus surgery is usually carried out endoscopically—through the nostrils using fine telescopes, without external cuts. Complex cases may include:
Extended endoscopic sinus surgery to open multiple or difficult-to-reach sinuses.
Polyp removal to clear the nasal passages.
Revision surgery to treat scar tissue or regrowth.
Skull base or orbital work in cases where disease is close to the eye or brain.
The Role of Image Guidance
For advanced or revision cases, our surgeons use image-guided navigation systems (like a “sat nav” for surgery). This technology:
Matches the patient’s CT scan to real-time anatomy.
Allows the surgeon to work with pinpoint accuracy.
Improves safety, particularly when operating close to delicate areas such as the eye or brain.
Helps achieve the best possible clearance of disease.
Why Choose Hampshire ENT Clinics?
Experienced sinus surgeons with advanced training.
Access to cutting-edge navigation technology for complex cases.
Multidisciplinary support with radiology and allergy specialists when needed.
Personalised care—from diagnosis and medical therapy to surgery and follow-up.
Take the Next Step
If you suffer from long-term sinus problems that haven’t improved with medical treatment, advanced surgical options are available.
📞 Contact Hampshire ENT Clinics today to arrange a consultation with one of our sinus specialists.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Complex Sinus Surgery & Image-Guided Techniques
What is meant by “complex” sinus surgery?
Complex sinus surgery refers to advanced endoscopic procedures used when standard medical treatment or simple surgery has failed. This includes surgery for extensive disease, nasal polyps, revision (repeat) surgery, or disease close to sensitive structures such as the eyes or skull base.
How do I know if I need sinus surgery rather than medication?
Surgery is usually considered when symptoms persist for more than 12 weeks despite appropriate medical treatment (such as steroid sprays, saline rinses, or antibiotics), or when CT scans show ongoing blockage, polyps, or structural problems.
Is sinus surgery always performed through the nose?
Yes. Modern sinus surgery is performed endoscopically through the nostrils, using fine telescopes. There are no external cuts or facial scars.
What makes surgery “complex” compared with routine sinus surgery?
Complex cases may involve:
Disease affecting multiple sinuses
Extensive nasal polyps
Scar tissue from previous surgery
Involvement close to the eye or brain
Revision surgery after earlier procedures
These cases require advanced expertise and additional safety measures.
What is image-guided sinus surgery?
Image guidance uses your CT scan as a real-time navigation map during surgery—similar to a surgical “sat nav.” It helps the surgeon confirm their exact position at all times.
Why is image guidance important?
Image guidance:
Improves precision and confidence
Enhances safety near the eye and brain
Is especially valuable for revision or complex anatomy
Helps achieve more complete disease clearance
It is considered best practice for advanced sinus surgery.
Is image-guided surgery safer than standard surgery?
In complex cases, yes. While all sinus surgery is safe when performed by experienced surgeons, image guidance adds an extra layer of accuracy and reassurance in high-risk or anatomically challenging situations.
What is recovery like after complex sinus surgery?
Most patients:
Go home the same day or after a short stay
Experience nasal congestion and mild discomfort for 1–2 weeks
Use saline rinses and steroid sprays during healing
Notice gradual improvement in breathing, pressure, and infections
Full recovery and benefit continue over several weeks.
Will sinus surgery cure my sinus problems permanently?
Surgery improves drainage and access for medical treatment, but sinus disease is often inflammatory and long-term. Ongoing nasal care is usually required to maintain results, particularly in patients with polyps or allergies.
Is revision sinus surgery more risky?
Revision surgery can be more technically demanding due to scarring or altered anatomy, which is why image-guided navigation and specialist expertise are particularly important in these cases.
Why choose Hampshire ENT Clinics for complex sinus surgery?
At Hampshire ENT Clinics, patients benefit from:
Consultant ENT surgeons with advanced sinus expertise
Access to modern image-guided navigation systems
Careful case selection and personalised treatment plans
Seamless care from assessment through surgery and follow-up
When should I arrange a consultation?
You should seek specialist review if you have:
Persistent sinus symptoms despite treatment
Recurrent infections or nasal polyps
Symptoms returning after previous surgery
CT scan evidence of ongoing sinus disease
👉 To explore advanced treatment options, contact Hampshire ENT Clinics to arrange a consultation with one of our sinus specialists.