Antroscopy via the inferior meatal route under local anaesthetic: a practical guide to technique

Antroscopy has been shown to have a significant role to play in the management of chronic sinus disease. A technique, performed via the inferior meatus, is described which has been used successfully in 103 patients under local anaesthetic. Particular attention has been paid to the practical problems and pitfalls which may be encountered and how they may be overcome. Vasovagal symptoms were the commonest adverse effect, occurring in 15 patients; otherwise the associated morbidity was encouragingly low. It is concluded that antroscopy performed with a good technique can be a rewarding procedure suitable for use in the outpatient department.