What should I do if nasal polyps recur for the second time?

Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
Updated on April 08, 2025
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Nasal polyps are a common and frequently occurring clinical disease, consisting of benign neoplasms in the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses. Clinically, nasal polyps are primarily treated through surgery, specifically functional endoscopic sinus surgery for the removal of polyps under nasal endoscopy. Nasal polyps have a certain probability of recurrence. After a second recurrence, a second surgery is required. Following surgery, it is necessary to regularly follow up with cleaning of the nasal and sinus cavities, and to actively use certain medications, such as corticosteroids and some macrolide anti-inflammatory drugs. Additionally, during nasal polyp surgery, some tissues should be removed for biopsy to avoid confusion between nasal polyps and papillomas.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Can nasal polyps be treated without surgery?

A portion of patients with nasal polyps may not require surgery. The decision to operate on nasal polyps primarily depends on the severity of the condition and the overall health of the patient. If the nasal polyps are particularly localized and the patient does not exhibit significant symptoms such as nasal congestion, purulent nasal discharge, reduced sense of smell, headaches, or dizziness, conservative treatment or regular check-ups may be considered. Conservative treatment involves the use of nasal sprays and regular examinations with a nasopharyngoscope to monitor the growth of the polyps. However, if the nasal polyps are extensive and accompanied by clinical symptoms, and conservative treatment proves ineffective, surgery may need to be considered. Currently, endoscopic surgery is commonly performed and is generally very effective with minimal trauma.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Is nasal polyps prone to recurrence?

Some patients have nasal polyps that tend to recur. Clinically speaking, nasal polyps are a relatively common nasal disease. If the nasal polyps are more extensive, have been present for a longer time, or are characterized by abundant eosinophilic granulocytes, the likelihood of recurrence is relatively higher. If the duration of nasal polyps is relatively short, the lesions are more localized, and there are no accompanying pathological changes or inflammatory reactions, the probability of recurrence is relatively lower. In such cases, it is generally necessary to have regular follow-up examinations after treatment, and then to make a comprehensive assessment based on the doctor's empirical judgment.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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The difference between nasal polyps and nasal cancer

Nasal polyps and nasal cancer are both relatively common otolaryngological diseases, but they belong to different types. Nasal polyps are benign lesions, which do not pose a significant risk to health, while nasal cancer is a malignant tumor, which comparatively poses a greater risk to health. In terms of examination, differentiation can be made through nasopharyngoscopy and sinus CT scans. Generally, nasal polyps tend to grow in the middle nasal passage and the olfactory area, whereas nasal cancer is more commonly found in the nasopharyngeal region or within the sinuses. Overall, these two diseases are fundamentally different, and it is advisable to visit an otolaryngologist for further examination and treatment.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Conservative treatment methods for nasal polyps

Conservative treatment for nasal polyps is mainly applicable to cases with smaller range and less severe symptoms. Generally, it is advisable to begin with some nasal endoscopy to assess the extent of the condition. The primary treatment method considered is nasal sprays, particularly corticosteroid nasal sprays, and additionally, physiological saline can be used to cleanse the nasal cavity. If accompanied by rhinitis and sinusitis, it may also be necessary to consider treatment with oral medication. Overall, most patients see some effectiveness with conservative treatment, but there may be recurrence or cases where conservative treatment is not effective, and surgery might be considered as an option.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Can nasal polyps be operated on in the outpatient clinic?

Nasal polyps are benign neoplasms in the nasal cavity. Pathologically, nasal polyps are benign tumors. Clinically, the primary treatment is the surgical removal of nasal polyps followed by regular outpatient follow-ups to prevent recurrence. Currently, the surgery for nasal polyps is generally performed under general anesthesia, involving the removal of nasal polyps and sinus opening procedures, which are functional surgeries. Such surgeries require hospitalization and are conducted under endoscopy, typically under general anesthesia. Although in some regions, the surgery may be performed under local anesthesia, hospitalization is still required for the procedure, and it is generally not conducted on an outpatient basis.