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Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)
Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is a minimally invasive procedure to widen the drainage passages between the sinuses and the nose.
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Surgery by a sinus specialist is most often performed to relieve the patient of a painful sinus infection, or the symptoms of chronic sinusitis.

Endoscopic (keyhole) surgery is the most common method applied.

An endoscope is used by Mr Khatwa to check the sinus and surrounding nasal passages and is used to remove any inflamed tissue which is the likely source of pain and/or polyps. This type of surgery is called functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS).

What is Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)?

Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is a minimally invasive procedure to widen the drainage passages between the sinuses and the nose. It is performed using a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light on the end (an endoscope). The endoscope is inserted through the nose to visualize the sinuses. The surgeon then uses small instruments to remove any blockages or growths that are causing the sinusitis.

Why do people need Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)?

FESS is typically recommended for people with chronic sinusitis that has not responded to other treatments, such as antibiotics and nasal sprays. FESS can also be used to treat other sinus problems, such as nasal polyps, tumors, and cysts.

Who is suitable for Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)?

FESS is generally safe for most people. However, it may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions, such as severe asthma, heart disease, or bleeding disorders.

FESS is commonly performed on adults of all ages, but it can also be performed on children.

FESS is a very effective surgery for the treatment of chronic sinusitis. Most people who have FESS experience significant relief from their symptoms.

Benefits of Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)

The benefits of FESS include:

  • Improved sinus drainage and ventilation
  • Reduced inflammation and swelling
  • Relief from sinus symptoms, such as nasal congestion, facial pain, and headache
  • Improved quality of life

How FESS can help with treatment alongside lifestyle changes etc.

FESS can help with the treatment of chronic sinusitis by improving sinus drainage and ventilation. This can help to reduce inflammation and swelling, and relieve sinus symptoms.

Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding cigarette smoke, staying hydrated, and using a humidifier, can also help to reduce sinus symptoms. However, these lifestyle changes may not be enough to resolve chronic sinusitis in some people. FESS can be a valuable treatment option for people who have tried lifestyle changes but have not experienced relief from their symptoms.

The Procedure

FESS is typically performed under general anesthesia. Mr Khatwa will insert the endoscope through the nose and into the sinuses. The surgeon will then use small instruments to remove any blockages or growths that are causing the sinusitis.

After surgery, you will be taken to the recovery room to be monitored. You will likely be able to go home the same day.

Pre-surgery – getting ready for surgery

Before FESS, Mr Khatwa will give you instructions on how to prepare for surgery. These instructions may include:

  • Fasting for a certain number of hours before surgery
  • Taking certain medications
  • Avoiding certain medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen

Post-surgery – what do do after surgery

After FESS, you will need to follow Mr Khatwa's instructions for post-operative care. These instructions may include:

  • Taking pain relievers
  • Using a saline nasal spray
  • Avoiding strenuous activity
  • Keeping your head elevated
If you are considering FESS, be sure to book an appointment with Mr Khatwa to discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure. FESS is a very effective surgery for the treatment of chronic sinusitis, but it is important to understand the risks and benefits before making a decision.
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Brad Fisher profile picture
Brad Fisher
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I had a procedure with Mr Khatwa to reduce snoring, service was excellent throughout and was happy with the results
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Tanja Buys profile picture
Tanja Buys
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Tanja Cerff(married name) Dr Khatwa is a kind, caring doctor who saved the day for me! After a long standing issue, Dr Khatwa identified the issue and corrrected it right there and then. He is a wonderful doctor that I highly recommend!
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Alan Chatting profile picture
Alan Chatting
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Excellent kind and effective care!
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Robert Paterson profile picture
Robert Paterson
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After several years of suffering frequent nose bleeds Mr Khatwa managed to solve the issue during my initial consultation with him. He was very kind, calm and a good listener. Highly recommended
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Karen Thompson profile picture
Karen Thompson
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My Surgeon was mr Khatwa he was very friendly and put me at ease I would definitely recommend him to anyone so nice and very professional
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Ashley Miller profile picture
Ashley Miller
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The service provided by Mr Mohamed Khatwa at Nuffield Plymouth was exceptional having been messed about by the NHS for 3 years with multiple other consultants and having had surgery’s cancelled on the day of surgery. From the initial consultation Mr Khatwa explained the full procedure in detail explaining all of the procedure and providing diagrams. The day of surgery came and all went smoothly. Mr Khatwa has a very calm relaxed approach which leads you to feel relaxed and reassured I would recommend his services to anyone that needed it
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Roger Gillett profile picture
Roger Gillett
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Mr Khatwa immediately put me at my ease. With a kind and very professional manner, Mr Khatwa conducted a thorough examination, identified the cause and carried out the procedure there and then. After a follow up visit, all has healed very well. The whole experience has been excellent. We are very privileged to have seen Mr Khatwa who is a true gentleman.
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Nick L profile picture
Nick L
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I recently underwent sinus surgery at Nuffield Health Exeter under the care of Mr Khatwa, and the entire experience was outstanding. From the initial consultation through to post-operative care, the process was seamless and handled with professionalism and compassion. Mr Khatwa and the whole team were exemplary throughout, and I felt well informed and supported at every stage. I would highly recommend Mr Khatwa and the team at Nuffield Health Exeter.
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Carolyn Harris profile picture
Carolyn Harris
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I can highly recommend Mr Khatwa as a very professional and friendly ENT consultant. He takes the time to explain the required procedures and points out the problem areas from xrays . Having suffered from loss of taste and smell for over 20years, I now have both senses which is very life enhancing and I cannot thank him enough. (I had nasal polyps removed and a sinus endoscpy)
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James Maunder profile picture
James Maunder
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Professional, prompt and effective service. Dr Mohamed A Khatwa was excellent.
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South West ENT Consultations with Mr Khatwa, Consultant Surgeon in Exeter, Plymouth & Devon

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