Comparing Sinus Surgery vs. Medical Treatment for Cystic Fibrosis Patients

Plain-English translation of NCT04469439 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated April 2026 · Translation generated June 2026 · How we translate trials

What is this trial?

Cystic fibrosis often causes chronic sinus problems that don't improve with medications alone. This study compares two treatment approaches—endoscopic sinus surgery versus ongoing medical therapy—to see which helps patients feel better and breathe easier. Researchers will track your lung health, quality of life, and other outcomes over time to understand which treatment path works best.

Many cystic fibrosis patients struggle with persistent sinus symptoms even after trying medications. Doctors aren't sure whether adding surgery to medical treatment helps these patients more than continuing medical therapy alone, so this research aims to answer that important question.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are between 18 and 99 years old
you have been diagnosed with cystic fibrosis by genetic testing and/or sweat chloride testing
you have been diagnosed with chronic rhinosinusitis (ongoing sinus inflammation) following clinical guidelines
your sinus symptoms have continued despite initial medical treatment
you have discussed both sinus surgery and ongoing medical therapy with your doctor and chosen which treatment you prefer

You likely don't qualify if…

you have had endoscopic sinus surgery within the past 12 months
you will receive follow-up care at a hospital or clinic that is not part of this study
you are unable to complete follow-up surveys and questionnaires

What participation looks like

You will be enrolled in either the surgery group or the medical management group based on the treatment you and your doctor decide is best for you. Throughout the study, you'll complete surveys about your quality of life and provide information about your lung health and sinus symptoms. Researchers will track your outcomes over time to compare how the two treatment approaches affect patients with cystic fibrosis.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 3, 2026 · Not medical advice

Trial locations(9 sites)

United States

University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California

Stanford University, Stanford, California

University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado

National Jewish Health, Denver, Colorado

University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina