Corticosteroid use linked to timing of sinus and septoplasty surgeries

A large retrospective cohort study published by Cureus indicates that adults undergoing septoplasty and functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) on the same day face higher rates of postoperative corticosteroid use compared to those who have the procedures staged at least 30 days apart.

Using data from the TriNetX U.S. Collaborative Network, researchers found that 29.17% of the same-day cohort required systemic corticosteroids, compared to 26.01% in the staged group. Intranasal corticosteroid use was also higher in the same-day group at 40.46%, versus 33.74% for staged patients.

In a separate evidence-based review published in the International Forum of Allergy & Rhinology, experts examined the use of systemic corticosteroids for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). While short courses of corticosteroids can improve nasal polyp size, congestion, and olfactory function in patients with nasal polyps, the review notes that cumulative exposure carries risks such as metabolic, cardiovascular, and skeletal complications.