Clinical Trial Shows Surgery Outperforms Antibiotics in Treating Chronic Sinus Disease

A recent large-scale clinical trial has demonstrated that surgery is more effective than antibiotics for managing chronic rhinosinusitis, a long-term sinus condition affecting many adults. Led by researchers from University College London in collaboration with the University of East Anglia and Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, the study involved over 500 participants across the UK. All participants used standard treatments like nasal steroids and saline rinses. The trial compared the outcomes of those who underwent sinus surgery, those who received long-term antibiotics, and those given placebo tablets.

Results revealed that patients who had sinus surgery experienced sustained relief from symptoms, with 87% reporting improved quality of life six months post-procedure. Conversely, the group receiving antibiotics did not show significant improvement compared to the placebo, indicating that antibiotics may have limited value in treating this condition.

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) causes persistent nasal congestion, loss of smell, facial pain, and breathing difficulties, often resembling severe cold symptoms. This condition can last for months or even years, significantly impacting daily life.

Lead researcher Professor Carl Philpott highlighted that the inflammation and swelling of the sinuses hinder mucus drainage, leading to symptoms like nasal congestion and smell loss. He emphasized the importance of the findings for patient care, noting that previous restrictions on access to sinus surgery in the UK could be addressed with this robust evidence.

The study, part of the MACRO program, also involved expert contributions from other UK institutions. It underscores the need for efficient treatment pathways, potentially reducing unnecessary medical visits and healthcare costs.

Further investigations are ongoing to assess the long-term benefits and cost-effectiveness of sinus surgery. The findings offer hope for improved management of CRS and may influence future clinical guidelines and healthcare policies.

For more detailed results, refer to the original publication in The Lancet (2025). Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-surgery-chronic-sinus-disease-effective.html