Saccharin test of maxillary sinus mucociliary function after endoscopic sinus surgery

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Surgical Innovation
• Diagnostic Techniques

Background:

• Chronic sinusitis often necessitates endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS).
• Post-surgical assessment of maxillary sinus mucociliary function is crucial for treatment efficacy.
• Evaluating mucociliary function aids in determining subsequent therapeutic strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the utility of the saccharin time (ST) test.
• To assess mucociliary function in maxillary sinuses post-endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS).
• To correlate ST test results with endoscopic findings and guide treatment.

Main Methods:

• The study involved 88 maxillary sinuses from 74 patients following ESS.
• A saccharin granule was placed in the maxillary sinus, and the time to taste detection was recorded (ST test).
• Sinuses were categorized based on endoscopic assessment of mucosal edema and swelling post-ESS.

Main Results:

• Mean ST increased with greater mucosal edema and swelling severity post-ESS.
• Scanning electron microscopy revealed cilia loss in sinuses with prolonged ST.
• Follow-up assessments showed ST test results generally correlated with endoscopic improvements, though discrepancies were noted.

Conclusions:

• The maxillary sinus ST test is a simple, accurate method for evaluating post-ESS mucociliary function.
• Integrating ST testing with endoscopy provides valuable information for therapeutic decisions.
• This technique aids in managing patients with chronic sinusitis after ESS.