EFFICACY OF STEROID IMPREGNATED NASAL PACKING ON POSTOPERATIVE OUTCOME AFTER FUNCTIONAL ENDOSCOPIC SINUS SURGERY

Background: Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) is a mainstay in managing chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). This study explores whether steroid-impregnated nasal packing can improve postoperative healing outcomes.Methods: A total of 66 patients undergoing bilateral FESS were randomized. One nasal cavity received Triamcinolone-soaked packing, and the other received saline. Outcomes were scored at 1 and 2 weeks.Results: The steroid side showed significantly reduced crusting (18.2%) and synechiae (12.1%) versus the control (53.0% and 31.8% respectively, p<0.01). Patient satisfaction and healing scores were also improved.Conclusion: Triamcinolone-impregnated nasal packing improves postoperative outcomes and can be safely recommended in FESS patients.