Expert: Sinus procedure has improved

PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 11 (UPI) -- A University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine official has said surgery to open the sinuses has changed to become less painful and allow for faster healing.

Dr. David Kennedy, vice dean for professional services at the university, said the changes to surgical procedures treating sinusitis have reduced complications related to the procedure, USA Today reported Monday.

The changes include the usage of tiny endoscope cameras, computer navigation systems, hemostatic gels and a greater emphasis on after-care, the newspaper said.

"The emphasis now is on both doing a more complete surgical procedure and on much more aggressive post-operative care," Kennedy said.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says sinusitis, which involves inflammation of the mucosa tissue that lines the sinus cavities behind the forehead, eyes and cheeks, is one of the most common chronic illnesses diagnosed in the United States each year, causing 12.5 million visits to doctors' offices in 2004.