Acute and Chronic Rhinosinusitis: A Comprehensive Review

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/icahn-school-of-medicine-at-mount-sinai-acute-and-chronic-rhinosinusitis

Introduction

### Course Review: Acute and Chronic Rhinosinusitis: A Comprehensive Review **Overview** The internet has become a goldmine for healthcare professionals seeking to expand their knowledge and hone their skills. One course that stands out is “Acute and Chronic Rhinosinusitis: A Comprehensive Review.” Offered by the Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery at the prestigious Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, this course aims to educate primary care physicians, general otolaryngologists, nurses, physician assistants, and medical assistants about the complexities of diagnosing and treating both acute and chronic rhinosinusitis. It serves as a robust option for those looking to deepen their understanding of nasal conditions and enhance their clinical practices. **Course Structure** This course is divided into several informative modules, each covering different aspects of nasal anatomy, diagnosis, and treatment. The key modules include: 1. **Normal Sinus Anatomy and Function** In this foundational module, Dr. Govindaraj explores the normal anatomy and function of the sinuses, supplemented with illustrative images and CT scans. The goal is to equip participants with a sound understanding of normal sinus anatomy, mucociliary function, and drainage pathways. **Learning Outcomes:** - Describe the normal anatomy and functions of the sinuses. - Understand the importance of mucociliary function. 2. **Acute Rhinosinusitis: Diagnosis and Treatment** This module delves into the critical distinctions between acute bacterial and viral rhinosinusitis. Dr. Govindaraj presents the bacterial pathogens involved and offers insights on when antibiotic therapy might not be necessary. The guidelines for managing acute sinusitis are thoroughly reviewed, making this section particularly valuable for practitioners seeking to make informed clinical decisions. **Learning Outcomes:** - Distinguish between acute and chronic rhinosinusitis. - Diagnose acute and chronic rhinosinusitis competently. - Recognize the pathogenesis underlying these conditions. 3. **Chronic Rhinosinusitis: Diagnosis and Treatment** A comprehensive approach to chronic rhinosinusitis is the focus here. Dr. Govindaraj compares the diagnosis of chronic to acute sinusitis and discusses associated disorders that predispose patients to this chronic condition. Current treatment guidelines, systemic, and topical therapies are thoroughly explored, enhancing the learner's ability to manage patients effectively. **Learning Outcomes:** - Identify causative agents for both acute and chronic rhinosinusitis. - Assess medical management strategies. - Evaluate antibiotic choices for effective treatment. 4. **The Role of Surgery for Sinusitis** The final module tackles the surgical options for those suffering from refractory acute or chronic rhinosinusitis. This segment not only highlights the benefits of sinus surgery but also prepares general otolaryngologists on the procedures involved, along with potential complications. Short video segments aid in visual learning, making complex surgical processes more accessible for participants. **Learning Outcomes:** - Identify indications for sinus surgery and its potential complications. - Understand the components of endoscopic sinus surgery. **CME Information and Accreditation** The course includes Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits, making it a valuable addition for professionals looking to fulfill their educational requirements while gaining insights from industry experts. **Activity Evaluation** Participants are encouraged to engage with the course evaluation to provide feedback, which is vital for refining and enhancing future continuing education offerings. **Recommendation** In conclusion, “Acute and Chronic Rhinosinusitis: A Comprehensive Review” is highly recommended for healthcare professionals involved in managing sinus-related conditions. Its thorough content, combined with the expertise of Dr. Govindaraj, ensures participants not only learn the theoretical aspects of rhinosinusitis but also acquire practical, actionable knowledge. From anatomy to treatment, this online course is an impressive resource that empowers professionals to provide the best care possible to their patients. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or a newcomer in the field, this course is an excellent investment in your ongoing professional development.

Syllabus

CME Information, Accreditation

Dr. Govindaraj of the Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, describes an overview of the normal sinus anatomy and function. Illustrated images and CT scans are used to review the anatomy of the paranasal sinuses. The microscopic appearance of the sinus mucosa is reviewed, utilizing dynamic multimedia to enhance the viewer’s understanding. The module concludes with a review of the various sinus drainage pathways. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: a) Describe the normal anatomy of the sinuses. b) Describe normal sinus function. c) Assess the importance of mucociliary function.

In this module about acute sinusitis Dr. Govindaraj will focus on diagnosis and management. This will help you distinguish between acute bacterial from viral rhinosinusitis. The bacterial pathogens responsible for acute sinusitis are covered in-depth, as well as when antibiotic therapy can be withheld in select cases. In addition, the current Academy Guidelines for the management of acute sinusitis are reviewed, focusing on the diagnostic criteria, as well as evidence-based management of this disease process. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: a) Explain difference between acute and chronic rhinosinusitis. b) Appropriately diagnose acute and chronic rhinosinusitis. c) Recognize the proposed pathogenesis of acute and chronic rhinosinusitis.

Dr. Govindaraj focuses on the diagnosis and management of chronic rhinosinusitis. The diagnostic criteria is reviewed and compared to acute sinusitis which will help to clearly distinguish between these two entities. Associated disorders that predispose patients to chronic sinusitis are discussed, as well as the diagnostic evaluation that should be performed in the workup of these patients. The role of systemic and topical therapies is also reviewed. Additionally, the current Academy Guidelines are covered in-depth, as well as the evidence-based medical management of this disease process. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: a) Identify the causative agents for acute and chronic rhinosinusitis. b) Assess the medical management of acute and chronic rhinosinusitis. c) Evaluate the recommended antibiotic choices for acute and chronic rhinosinusitis

We will focus on the role of surgery and the management of refractory acute and/or chronic rhinosinusitis. We hope you will appreciate the potential benefits offered by sinus surgery, as well as the indications to pursue this treatment modality. The latter half of this module is geared toward the general otolaryngologist, who performs sinus surgery. The necessary preparation and steps of the procedure are reviewed, as well as important anatomic landmarks during surgical dissection. Short video segments are used in order to enhance the viewer’s understanding. Themodule concludes with a brief discussion of the potential complications associated with sinus surgery. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: a) Identify the indications for sinus surgery. b) Assess the potential complications of endoscopic sinus surgery. c) To perform and recognize the components of an endoscopic sinus surgery.

All learners are urged to complete an evaluation. Your comments are essential for improving the effectiveness of Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai’s continuing medical education activities.