Tailoring the treatment of type-2 related chronic rhinosinusitis with or without nasal polyps: a comparative analysis of medical and surgical approaches.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Advances in understanding the molecular pathways underlying nasal epithelial inflammation have ushered in the era of personalized medicine for chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). Research progress has led to the approval of several monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for severe CRSwNP, demonstrating promising outcomes in both clinical trials and real-world settings. Similarly, evolution in surgical techniques has enhanced progression-free survival due to the development of novel approaches. This narrative review summarizes current evidence comparing medical and surgical options for CRSwNP.

Recent findings: There is general consensus that surgery is most effective in reducing nasal polyp size (NPS), while mAbs appears to provide greater benefits in terms of quality-of-life measures and olfactory function. Overall, surgery has shown higher long-term cost-effectiveness, although this could change with the upcoming patent expirations of mAbs. Additionally, head-to-head trials will allow for a direct comparison of the effectiveness of different mAbs in disease-specific outcomes.

Summary: The high heterogeneity among studies has limited the ability to draw definitive conclusions through meta-analyses. To date, endoscopic sinus surgery remains the preferred option for surgery-naive patients, while individuals with recalcitrant CRSwNP and confirmed type-2 inflammation should be considered for mAb treatment.