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ENT · Nose: synechiae after FESS
Sample itemAfter functional endoscopic sinus surgery, a patient has recurrent frontal and maxillary symptoms. Endoscopy shows a band between the middle turbinate and lateral nasal wall. What is the most common complication of FESS, and what is it?
Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.
The answer and the reasoning
B. Synechiae (adhesions) between the middle turbinate and lateral nasal wall
Adhesions between the raw surfaces of the middle turbinate and the lateral wall are the commonest complication and can obstruct the ostiomeatal complex. Prevention includes careful mucosal preservation, spacers and postoperative endoscopic debridement. Major complications such as CSF leak and visual loss are rare.
Option by option
A. Blindness
Visual loss is a rare major complication.
B. Synechiae (adhesions) between the middle turbinate and lateral nasal wall (correct)
Correct. Synechiae are the most common sequel.
C. CSF leak
CSF leak is uncommon.
D. Anosmia
Anosmia is uncommon and not the most frequent sequel.
Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.
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