Practice Patterns in Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: Survey of the Korean Rhinologic Society

Background and Objectives: Endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) has become the standard treatment modality in chronic rhinosinusitis. However there is no uniform treatment protocol regarding preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care. The objectives of this study are to identify and report the practice patterns of ESS in South Korea. Materials and Method: A series of eight surveys were sent to the board members of the Korean Rhinologic Society via email between August 2013 and September 2014. Responses to questions regarding detailed practice patterns were recorded anonymously. Results: The average number of replies to each survey was 41.5. Routine antibiotics were prescribed just before computed tomography by 46.9% of the respondents, and the mean duration of antibiotics treatment was 1.90 weeks. A routine preoperative olfactory test was conducted by 64.3% of respondents, and allergy tests were conducted by 82.2%. General anesthesia was preferred by 76.8%, and the mean hospitalization period was 3.12 days. The mean rotation speed used for a microdebrider was 3,054 rpm, and 3,000 rpm was selected by 51.6% of the respondents. In addition, 74.2% of respondents reported that they operate the foot switch themselves. Finally, an absorbable pack was preferred after ESS. Conclusion: The current study was the first nationwide survey on practice patterns in endoscopic sinus surgery in Korea, and the data reflects the opinions of expert sinus surgeons.