Post-operative debridement following FESS
Reviewed by Andy Hall

Postoperative treatment pathways for patients following functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) vary widely with the topic of debridement of the nasal cavity a subject of conjecture. This article is the result of two independent reviewers using the consort guidance for systematic reviews. Six randomised control trials were identified and included (Level of Evidence: 1B). Four studies compared debridement against no debridement with two assessing frequency of debridement. Cumulatively, 337 patients were included in the analysis with consistent use of visual analogue scores in all studies. There was no demonstrable difference in sino-nasal outcome test scores or objective endoscopic scores in long-term follow-up. Currently, there is no clear evidence for frequent postoperative debridement. Frustratingly, well-designed RCTs are required to establish benefit, optimal frequency, extent and timing of debridement post FESS. 

Postoperative nasal debridement following functional endoscopic sinus surgery, a systematic review of the literature.
Green R, Banigo A, Hathorn I.
CLINICAL OTOLARYNGOLOGY
2015;40:2-8.