Image-guided, navigation-assisted Relieva Stratus MicroFlow Spacer insertion into the ethmoid sinus

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Medical Devices
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Anatomical complexity in paranasal sinuses hinders topical corticosteroid delivery.
• Suboptimal drug concentrations result from challenges in reaching the target ethmoid sinus mucosa.
• Ethmoid sinusitis requires effective, localized anti-inflammatory treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the Relieva Stratus MicroFlow Spacer for treating ethmoid sinusitis.
• To compare the technical outcomes of C-arm fluoroscopy-guided versus image-guided surgery (IGS)-assisted implantation.
• To assess the precision and safety of different guidance methods for ethmoid sinus implants.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective analysis of 52 Relieva Stratus implantations in the ethmoid sinus.
• Procedures were guided by either C-arm fluoroscopy (26 sinuses) or optical image-guided surgery (IGS) (26 sinuses).
• Evaluation of implantation accuracy, safety, and procedural efficiency.

Main Results:

• IGS-guided insertion was technically superior, offering faster, safer, and more exact procedures.
• Fluoroscopic guidance, while less optimal, prevented critical anatomical violations.
• IGS ensures optimal implant positioning and efficacy without ionizing radiation.

Conclusions:

• The Relieva Stratus is a viable option for targeted triamcinolone acetonide delivery in ethmoid sinusitis.
• Image-guided surgery (IGS) represents a significant advancement for precise and safe implantation of sinus drug-eluting stents.
• IGS enhances the therapeutic potential of localized drug delivery in sinonasal disease management.