Complications of Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: Are We Safer Now?

Monday, October 13, 2025

2:30 PM - 3:30 PM EDT

Location: 125

Disclosure(s):

Mohamad R. Chaaban, MD, MSCR, MBA:

faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

James A. Stankiewicz, MD:

faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

Kevin C. Welch, MD:

faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

Devyani Lal, MD:

faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: This session will provide a comprehensive exploration of the outcomes, complications, and revision rates associated with balloon sinuplasty (BSP), functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS), and hybrid procedures in the management of chronic rhinosinusitis. Leading experts in sinonasal surgery will analyze major early and late complications, including cerebrospinal fluid leaks, orbital injuries, severe bleeding, and other risks, while addressing how these issues impact patient safety and outcomes.

The discussion will examine whether advancements in technology, technique, and protocols over recent years have improved safety and reduced complication rates. Key intraoperative strategies to minimize risks will be highlighted, including the use of navigation systems, enhanced visualization, and standardized safety checklists. The session will also delve into the critical importance of training for surgical residents, focusing on how programs can instill a culture of safety, improve technical proficiency, and reduce the likelihood of errors during and after surgery.

In addition to clinical aspects, the medicolegal implications of surgical complications will be explored. This includes understanding liability, improving documentation, and fostering transparent communication with patients about risks, complications, and outcomes. Attendees will leave equipped with actionable insights into improving patient safety, enhancing surgical education, and navigating the legal considerations associated with sinonasal surgery. This session aims to not only advance surgical practice but also ensure the delivery of safe, high-quality care to patients.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 1: Identify Major Complications and Safety Improvements

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 2: Enhance Intraoperative and Training Strategies

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 3: Understand Medicolegal Implications

BACKGROUND STATEMENT: This session, identified as a key knowledge gap for 2025, will address patient safety in sinonasal surgery. It explores complications, outcomes, and revisions in BSP, FESS, and hybrid procedures, focusing on risk reduction, training, and medicolegal considerations.

Comprehensive Otolaryngology Track Statement :

Moderator(s)

MC

Mohamad R. Chaaban, MD, MSCR, MBA

Associate Professor
Cleveland Clinic
Cleveland, OH, United States

Disclosure(s):
faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

Panelist(s)

James A. Stankiewicz, MD

Professor
Loyola University Chicago
Maywood, IL, United States

Disclosure(s):
faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.
KW

Kevin C. Welch, MD

Professor
Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Chicago, IL, United States

Disclosure(s):
faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.
Devyani Lal, MD

Professor of Otolaryngology, Division Chair of Rhinology, Dean of Education, Mayo Clinic in Arizona
Mayo Clinic
Phoenix, AZ, United States

Disclosure(s):
faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.