Endoscopic Nasal & Sinus Surgery

Dr. William Porter has performed hundreds of endoscopic nasal and sinus surgeries since the mid-80s. He tailors surgery to each patient and not only addresses sinuses but physical obstructions to airways, as well. Most of these patients have done very well, as Dr. Porter has had an 85 percent to 90 percent success rate in cutting down recurring sinus infections in his patients and eliminating nasal blockage and pressure.

Traditional vs. endoscopic nasal and sinus surgery.

Traditionally, surgeons were required to go under the lip to gain access to the sinus. An incision was then made into the sinus in order to clean out the sinus lining. Because of the excessive bleeding caused by this procedure, the sinus and nasal cavity had to be packed with over a foot of gauze. Mid-face bruising and swelling was to be expected, and normal recovery time was at least 10 days.

Comparatively, Dr. Porter’s endoscopic approach is far less painful and traumatic. The surgery itself is performed through the nose with no other facial incision necessary, so there is no bruising or swelling of the mid-face after surgery.

Dr. Porter begins surgery by inserting a small fiberoptic surgical telescope in the nostril so that he can see and remove polyps and obstructions with a high degree of precision and without the risk and discomfort of traditional surgery.

Dr. Porter utilizes a powered instrument known as microdebrider in conjunction with endoscopes and nasal/sinus endoscopy instruments to delicately yet efficiently remove diseased tissue while preserving normal structures. Patients undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery using microdebriders spend less time in surgery and have less bleeding, faster healing and a lower incidence of complications than when compared to conventional methods.

The entire procedure takes just a little over an hour to complete, and recovery time for your patient is about a week after surgery, with no real restrictions. This means your patient can go back to work or school faster and with far less pain compared to traditional surgery.

Dr. Porter performs endoscopic nasal and sinus surgery at Northern Plains Surgery Center as an outpatient procedure, as well as at Essentia Hospital. Prior to surgery, patients undergo a thorough evaluation of their symptoms, a physical examination, CT imaging scan and relevant laboratory tests. The risks, goals, benefits and expectations are thoroughly discussed, and the patient’s questions are answered. At the conclusion of the procedure, limited sponge packs are placed in the nasal passages. These are removed with minimal discomfort several days later.

For more information on endoscopic nasal and sinus surgery – or any other ear, nose or throat conditions – call Dr. Porters office at (701) 235-0161 and schedule an appointment. Alternatively you can use our online Request an Appointment form.