Concha bullosa: endoscopic treatment.

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Rhinosinusology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Middle turbinate pneumatization, also known as concha bullosa, is an anatomical variation.
• It can contribute to symptoms of chronic nasal obstruction and sinusitis.
• Understanding its prevalence and treatment is crucial for otolaryngologists.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the frequency of middle turbinate pneumatization.
• To evaluate the efficacy of endoscopic surgical treatment for concha bullosa.
• To assess symptom resolution and complications following the procedure.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 49 patients with sinusitis and headache symptoms.
• Review of CT scans for middle turbinate pneumatization.
• Functional endoscopic sinus surgery performed on affected patients.
• Post-operative follow-up assessments at regular intervals (7, 15, 30, 60 days, and 12 months).

Main Results:

• Middle turbinate pneumatization was identified in 22.4% of the study cohort (11 out of 49 patients).
• All patients presenting with chronic nasal obstruction and concha bullosa showed complete symptom remission after endoscopic surgery.
• No significant complications were reported during the follow-up period.

Conclusions:

• Middle turbinate pneumatization is a relevant finding in patients with chronic nasal obstruction and sinusitis.
• Functional endoscopic sinus surgery is a safe and effective treatment for symptomatic concha bullosa.
• Endoscopic management leads to excellent long-term symptom control without major adverse events.