Sinus Surgery Outperforms Antibiotics in Major Clinical Trial
New delhi: A large-scale clinical trial has revealed that surgery is a more effective treatment for chronic sinus disease, also known as chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), than a course of antibiotics. CRS presents with symptoms like nasal congestion, runny nose, loss of smell, facial pain, fatigue, and can exacerbate breathing difficulties in conditions like asthma – frequently enough mimicking a prolonged cold.
The study, published in The Lancet, followed over 500 patients across the UK. Researchers at the University of East Anglia and University College London compared the outcomes of sinus surgery to those of long-term antibiotic use and a placebo group. All participants continued to utilize standard care practices, including nasal steroids and saline rinses, known to provide symptom relief.
Results showed a notable enhancement in symptoms six months after surgery, with 87% of surgical patients reporting an enhanced quality of life.Conversely, a three-month course of low-dose antibiotics demonstrated no significant benefit, showing outcomes comparable to the placebo group.
“Our findings demonstrate that surgery provides lasting symptom relief, while antibiotics showed little to no impact,” explained Professor Carl philpott, lead author from the University of East Anglia’s Norwich medical school. “Previously, robust trial evidence confirming the superiority of surgery over medical treatment was lacking. This research represents a potential turning point for individuals suffering from chronic sinus disease.”
Researchers assessed treatment success through nasal and sinus examinations, airflow measurements, and smell tests at three and six-month intervals, monitoring both symptom improvement and potential side effects.
Professor Philpott added that the study’s findings coudl lead to more efficient treatment pathways, reducing needless patient visits and consultations, and ultimately conserving healthcare resources.