Superior rhinotomy for en bloc resection of bilateral ethmoid tumors

Ethmoid sinus neoplasms have traditionally been associated with a poor prognosis. Their advanced stage at presentation and proximity to vital structures have made them difficult to treat. Bilateral ethmoidal tumors impinging on or actively infiltrating the cribriform plate have been particularly resistant to cure. We have used the superior rhinotomy in conjunction with a bifrontal craniotomy in three patients to effect an en bloc resection of both ethmoid labyrinths and cribriform plate in an oncologically acceptable fashion.