Postoperative medication regimes and randomization
After FESS, the packing was removed on the second postoperative day. Patients were treated with topical corticosteroid nasal spray (200 micrograms mometasone furoate twice daily) for 3 months after removal of the packing. Patients were randomized to either a systemic steroid (n=53) or a placebo (n=53) from postoperative day 1. The steroid group received a steroid taper starting from 80 mg prednisolone. The dose was tapered down to 5 mg by day 14 and the 5-mg dose was continued for 14 additional days. The placebo group received lactose monohydrate tablets. The systemic steroid and the placebo were identical in appearance and were dispensed by staff members who were blinded to the content and the randomization. Both groups received tablets of 25 mg and 5 mg. Randomization was performed according to a 1:1 randomization pattern calculated by our statistician. A patient diary and a bi-weekly telephone consultation asking about current medication and symptoms were used to ensure patient compliance. Rescue medication (oral/topical steroids as well as antibiotics) was allowed if medically indicated.