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Complications in endoscopic intranasal ethmoidectomy: an update
1Department of Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery, Loyola University Medical School, Maywood, Ill 60153.
Endoscopic intranasal ethmoidectomy complication rates significantly decreased from 17% to 9.3% in a larger patient cohort. This demonstrates endoscopic ethmoidectomy is a safe and valid procedure when performed by experienced surgeons.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
Background:
- Previous studies reported high complication rates (17%) for endoscopic intranasal ethmoidectomy.
- Published complication rates for traditional intranasal ethmoidectomy range from 2.7% to 3.7%.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present updated complication data for endoscopic intranasal ethmoidectomy.
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the procedure in a larger patient series.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of complication data from 300 endoscopic intranasal ethmoidectomies performed on 180 patients.
- Review of methods and techniques employed to reduce complications.
Main Results:
- The overall complication rate decreased to 9.3% in the current series.
- Only two new complications (cerebrospinal fluid leak and subcutaneous emphysema) occurred since the initial report.
Conclusions:
- Endoscopic intranasal ethmoidectomy complication rates have been significantly reduced.
- The procedure is a valid and safe surgical option when performed by experienced surgeons.
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