A Survey on Biologics for the Treatment of Chronic Rhinosinusitis With Nasal Polyps Among Members of the Korean Rhinologic Society

Abstract

Background and Objectives In 2021, biologics were approved for treating chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) in Korea. However, CRS is a heterogeneous disease, and its characteristics are thought to differ between Western and Korean populations. This study aimed to evaluate the experiences of members of the Korean Rhinologic Society during the first year of biologic usage for the treatment of nasal polyps. Methods An anonymous survey consisting of 15 items was conducted from November to December 2021. The survey included questions about participant demographics, use of biologics for treating CRSwNP, and expectations regarding the effectiveness of biologics for treating CRSwNP. Results In total, 44 members participated in the survey. Approximately half of the respondents were in their 40s (50.0%) and had 5–9 years of clinical experience as otorhinolaryngologists (47.7%). The majority of participants held academic positions (95.4%). About half of them worked in Gyeonggi Province. The utilization of biologics did not differ significantly based on clinical experience (p=0.192). When asked about the factors considered for prescribing biologics, the most common reason was recurrence of polyps after surgery (87.2%). The most frequent reason for discontinuing biologics was cost (48.6%). When asked about the extent to which they expected that the availability of biologics for CRSwNP treatment would reduce endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS), 45.5% of members expected a reduction of approximately 10%–29%. In addition, 20.5% expected a reduction of 50% or more. However, 61.4% expected a reduction of less than 10% in primary ESS. In addition, most respondents (93.2%) agreed with the need for Korea-specific guidelines for biologic treatment. Conclusion There are discrepancies between the current guidelines for biologic treatment of CRSwNP and the reality of the situation, highlighting the need for the development of Korea-specific guidelines.