This is regarding your article on the internet regarding sinus infections. I was plagued by one horrendous infection last year. I took several rounds of antibiotics. Nothing really seemed to help. I was blowing out icky looking yellow stuff that smelled quite unusual. (I later found out that it was pus.) My doctor x-rayed me and found out that hot-diggity there was something there, referred me to an ENT and off I went. Little did I know that he would perform a DOUBLE irrigation of the sinuses. What an enlightening experience that was. At any rate, with that procedure and more antibiotics, I was cured and haven't had one since. I also must add that I have been plagued with sinus infections my whole life until then. I even had rhinoplasty done (septum and turbinates). I understand that irrigation of the sinuses should not be done on a regular basis, and if one does have persistent infections that other avenues should be approached.
Answer -------------------------
Irrigations of the sinuses (antral lavage) can have both diagnostic and therapeutic value. This procedure might be recommended for patients having sinusitis that fails to resolve with appropriate antibiotic therapy, and in whom an air-fluid level has been identified in the sinuses on x-ray. The procedure essentially involves placement of a catheter into the sinus located in the cheek under local anesthesia. A sample of the fluid in the sinus may then be withdrawn and analyzed for bacterial content. Then the sinus may be flushed out until clear with a sterile saline solution or antibiotic solution.
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Steve Dankle, MD
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Milwaukee, Wis
NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.
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