Endoscopic endonasal sinus surgery. Approaches and post-operative evaluation.

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Paranasal sinus surgery traditionally faces challenges with visualization and potential complications due to the complex anatomy.
• Advancements in endoscopic technology offer improved clarity and reduced risks in sinonasal procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of endoscopic endonasal sinusectomy for treating moderate to severe sinusitis.
• To assess the impact of improved visualization on surgical complication rates.

Main Methods:

• Procedures performed under local anesthesia included removal of ethmoid sinus mucosa, cellulae opening, and establishing sinonasal communication.
• Surgical techniques incorporated septal deviation correction and conchotomy.
• Post-operative X-ray studies evaluated maxillary sinus changes in 62 patients (102 sinuses).

Main Results:

• Excellent or good results were observed in 62 out of 102 sinuses.
• Overall clinical symptom improvement rate was 73%.
• Nasal discharge and obstruction showed higher improvement rates compared to post-nasal discharge.

Conclusions:

• Endoscopic endonasal sinusectomy provides effective treatment for moderate to severe sinusitis with a high rate of clinical improvement.
• Enhanced visualization with rigid endoscopes and video systems contributes to preventing surgical complications.
• The technique facilitates ventilation and healing of affected sinuses, including the maxillary sinus.