Proetz Nasal Irrigation («Cuckoo» Procedure)

Nasal congestion, a prolonged runny nose, and a feeling of pressure in the area of the paranasal sinuses may be manifestations of diseases in which the natural cleansing of the nasal cavity is impaired. In such cases, an otolaryngologist may recommend the «cuckoo» — nasal irrigation according to Proetz. 

The procedure helps to cleanse the nasal cavity of mucus and pathological contents, improve nasal breathing, and is used as a component of the comprehensive treatment of diseases of the nose and paranasal sinuses. At the «Oxford Medical» medical center, the procedure is performed by experienced otolaryngologists. If you have been bothered for a long time by nasal congestion, a runny nose, or other symptoms of ENT diseases, do not postpone a visit to the doctor.

The Proetz method, or the «cuckoo» procedure, is a method of rinsing the nasal cavity, during which the doctor, using a special solution, cleanses the nasal passages and paranasal sinuses of mucus, pus, and other discharge. During the session, the fluid is continuously delivered into one nostril and simultaneously removed through the other using a vacuum suction device. This allows the nasal cavity to be cleansed and nasal breathing to be improved.

The name of the «cuckoo» procedure is connected with the fact that during its performance the patient repeats «ku-ku». Thanks to this, the soft palate blocks the nasopharynx, which prevents the solution from entering the throat and respiratory tract.

The «cuckoo» procedure for nasal irrigation is a non-traumatic method, however, it cannot be performed for all patients. Before treatment, an otolaryngologist necessarily assesses the condition of the nasal cavity and excludes possible contraindications.

Irrigation is usually not performed in case of:

• frequent nosebleeds or a tendency to them;
• complete impairment of the patency of the nasal passages;
• acute nasal injuries;
• some psychoneurological diseases, if the patient cannot follow the doctor's instructions;
• individual intolerance to the components of the solution that is used for irrigation.

If the patient has nasal polyps that significantly block the nasal passages, the possibility of performing irrigation according to Proetz is determined individually after an examination. In such cases, the doctor may recommend another treatment method.

Special preparation is usually not required. Before it is performed, the doctor examines the nasal cavity, assesses the patency of the nasal passages, and makes sure that the irrigation will be safe and effective.

Before the procedure, it is recommended to:

• inform the doctor about all symptoms and previous diseases;
• tell about an allergy to medications, if there is one;
• immediately before the session, clear the nose of discharge.

In some cases, before irrigation, the doctor may use a vasoconstrictor drug to reduce swelling of the mucous membrane and ensure the free passage of the irrigation solution. This helps make the irrigation more effective and comfortable for the patient.

The «cuckoo» procedure for the nose is performed on an outpatient basis and usually lasts 10–15 minutes. During the procedure, the patient lies on their back with their head slightly tilted back.

The doctor performs the following actions step by step:

• delivers a special solution into one nostril;
• simultaneously, using a vacuum suction device, removes the fluid together with mucus and discharge through the other nostril.

During irrigation, the doctor asks the patient to repeat «ku-ku». This is necessary to prevent the solution from entering the throat and to ensure the correct performance of the procedure. After the session, during the next hour, it is recommended to avoid hypothermia and going out into cold air, especially during the cold season.

Provided that the procedure is performed correctly and the doctor's recommendations are followed, nasal irrigation according to Proetz is usually well tolerated. At the same time, like any medical manipulation, it may be accompanied by temporary side reactions.

After the procedure, the following are possible:

• short-term burning or irritation of the nasal mucosa;
• minor discomfort in the nose;
• sneezing;
• short-term nasal congestion;
• minor nasal bleeding in patients with increased sensitivity of the mucous membrane.

Doctors of «Oxford Medical» note: usually these manifestations pass on their own and do not require additional treatment. If heavy bleeding, severe pain, increased body temperature, or a sharp deterioration in well-being occurred after the procedure, it is necessary to consult a doctor as soon as possible.

If the doctor recommended the «cuckoo» procedure, the procedure in Kyiv and Irpin can be performed at the medical center «Oxford Medical». You can preliminarily view the cost of the «cuckoo» procedure and the prices for doctors' consultations here. To make an appointment at a time convenient for you, call the contact center or leave a request for a callback. 

The information is for informational purposes and does not replace a doctor's consultation.

Sources:

• US National Library of Medicine
• American Academy of Otolaryngology