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Neurosurgical complications after intranasal ethmoidectomy
R M Toselli1, A dePapp, R E Harbaugh
1Department of Surgery, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Hanover, New Hampshire 03756.
Summary
Intranasal ethmoidectomy can lead to serious intracranial complications, yet reports are rare. This review highlights two cases and emphasizes emergent repair to prevent further neurosurgical issues.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Otolaryngology
- Anatomy
Background:
- Intranasal ethmoidectomy is a frequent otolaryngological surgery.
- Intracranial complications, though serious, are infrequently reported.
- The ethmoid air cells' proximity to the cranial cavity poses risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review neurosurgical complications following intranasal ethmoidectomy.
- To analyze two patient cases with intracranial complications.
- To discuss the anatomical relationship between ethmoid air cells and the intracranial cavity.
Main Methods:
- Case report review.
- Literature synthesis.
- Anatomical review of ethmoid air cells.
Main Results:
- Two cases of intracranial complications after intranasal ethmoidectomy were identified.
- Literature review confirmed a paucity of reported neurosurgical complications.
- Anatomical descriptions highlight the risk of intracranial breach.
Conclusions:
- Definitive and emergent surgical repair is crucial for intracranial complications.
- Attention to potential vascular injury during repair is essential.
- Increased awareness of these rare but severe complications is needed.