Sinonasal Disease in the Elderly

Sinonasal Disease in the Elderly

Geriatrics
Module Summary

The US population is becoming increasingly older. While the pathogenesis of sinus disease does not significantly change, there are subtle anatomic and physiologic changes. Elderly patients have unique considerations due to medical co-morbidities as well as side effect of medications. There are changes in nasal mucosa that can make secretions thicker, as well as more susceptible to bleeding due to dryness. In addition, the bony anatomy can be more fragile which can lead to an increase unintended complications. A good understanding of pharmacology and drug interactions is important when medically mananging this patient population. Alterations in technique and the use of office techniques may also have a larger role in this population to reduce the need for general anesthesia.

Module Learning Objectives 
  1. Describe the physiologic and anatomic changes that occur in the elderly.
  2. Recognize the uniqe considerations that aging has on sinonasal disease and its management
  3. Review medications used to treat sinonasal disease and their side effects with elderly
Topics