Effects of Endoscopic Sinus Surgery on Olfactory Function

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Neurosurgery
• Olfactory Neuroscience

Background:

• Endoscopic endonasal approaches are increasingly used for sinonasal and skull base diseases.
• These procedures may involve manipulation of olfactory structures.
• Olfactory outcomes can vary significantly based on surgical extent and disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the impact of endoscopic sinus surgery and endonasal skull base approaches on olfaction.
• To identify factors influencing olfactory outcomes post-surgery.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies examining olfactory function after endoscopic sinonasal and skull base surgery.
• Analysis of surgical techniques, patient factors, and olfactory assessment methods.

Main Results:

• Endoscopic sinonasal procedures can alter olfactory perception.
• Optimizing olfactory function depends on surgical technique, tissue handling, and perioperative care.
• Preserving the olfactory cleft is important, but smell identification may not always correlate with anatomy.

Conclusions:

• Surgeons must manage patient expectations regarding olfactory outcomes.
• Routine olfactory assessment is vital for surgical work-up and follow-up.
• Careful surgical planning and execution are crucial for preserving olfactory function.