An update on attitudes and use of image-guided surgery

The aim of this study was to compare 2010 access to, usage of, and attitudes toward image-guided surgery (IGS) for endoscopic sinus surgery and anterior skull-base surgery to those in 2005.

A mail survey of American Rhinologic Society (ARS) members was performed in January 2010. Results were compared to results from the same survey mailed in January 2005.

Significantly more respondents in 2010 had access to IGS compared to 2005 (94.6% vs 86%, p = 0.002). Compared to 2005, IGS was used in a greater percentage of cases in 2010 (p < 0.0001). More respondents in 2010 felt that IGS is indicated for primary anterior ethmoidectomy, revision anterior ethmoidectomy, primary total ethmoidectomy, Lothrop procedure, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak repair, tumor surgery, orbital decompression, and optic nerve decompression (all p < 0.05). Similar to 2005, region, residency completion date, and availability of IGS in residency had no measureable effect on attitudes toward IGS. As in 2005, availability of IGS was associated with a greater feeling of its necessity in 2010.

IGS availability has grown significantly and nearly all ARS members now have access. Estimates of use by respondents have also increased over the last 5 years, particularly for ethmoid and advanced procedures. Revision surgery and advanced procedures continue to be chief indications for IGS use. As in 2005, the results of this survey reflect the opinion of the respondents, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the ARS or of practicing otolaryngologists in general.