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Endoscopic Septoplasty with Limited Two-line Resection: Minimally Invasive Surgery for Septal Deviation
Published on: June 20, 2018
Middle turbinate suture conchopexy during endoscopic sinus surgery does not impair olfaction
1Department of Otolaryngology and Bronchoesophagology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA. jay_dutton@rush.edu
American Journal of Rhinology & Allergy
|June 18, 2011
Summary
Suture medialization of the middle turbinate (MT) during endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) effectively prevents MT lateralization and shows a slight improvement in olfactory function. This technique is safe and does not impair the sense of smell.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Rhinology
- Surgical Innovation
Background:
- Endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) aims for patent sinus ostia, but middle turbinate (MT) lateralization can cause obstruction.
- Traditional methods to prevent MT lateralization include ethmoid packing and synechia creation.
- Suture medialization of the MT to the septum is effective but raises concerns about olfactory function due to the proximity of the olfactory groove.
Purpose of the Study:
- To objectively evaluate the effect of MT suture medialization on olfactory sensation before and after ESS.
- To assess the efficacy of MT suture medialization in preventing lateralization of the MT post-surgery.
Main Methods:
- A pilot study involving 153 patients undergoing ESS between January 2006 and January 2008.
- Objective olfactory function assessment using the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT) preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively.
- Postoperative endoscopic examination to evaluate MT medialization effectiveness and ethmoid cavity patency.
Main Results:
- UPSIT testing indicated a statistically significant improvement in olfactory function post-MT suture medialization compared to preoperative scores.
- Postoperative endoscopic evaluations confirmed that MT lateralization was an infrequent complication after this procedure.
Conclusions:
- MT suture medialization during ESS is a successful technique for preventing MT lateralization.
- This surgical approach does not negatively impact olfactory function and may even enhance it.
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