Contemporary Trends in Frontal Sinus Balloon Sinuplasty: A Pilot Study

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Rhinology
• Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures

Background:

• Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) management often involves balloon sinuplasty (BSP).
• Limited self-reported data exists regarding the utilization and complications of frontal sinus BSP.
• Understanding current practices is crucial for optimizing patient care and procedural safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize current utilization patterns of frontal sinus balloon sinuplasty (BSP).
• To document the spectrum of complications associated with frontal sinus BSP.
• To identify any previously unreported complications of the procedure.

Main Methods:

• An anonymous 20-question online survey was distributed to members of the American Osteopathic Colleges of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery.
• Data collection occurred from August 1-30, 2022, using multiple-choice and percentage sliding bar questions.
• Results were analyzed and reported as frequencies, means, and percentages.

Main Results:

• Forty-two respondents reported on their frontal sinus BSP practices, with most in community hospital settings.
• Respondents performing BSP primarily reported an average of 35.72 cases annually; those combining BSP with FESS reported 48.62 cases.
• Complications included headaches, acute bacterial rhinosinusitis, numbness, synechiae, orbital, and skull base issues, plus a novel finding of accidental sphenopalatine fossa dilation.

Conclusions:

• This study provides valuable insights into the utilization and complication profile of frontal sinus BSP.
• Findings contribute to the existing literature by detailing real-world practices and outcomes from a large otolaryngologic academy.
• The identification of accidental sphenopalatine fossa dilation highlights the need for continued vigilance and reporting of procedural events.