Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 23, 2026
07:30
Transcanalicular Diode Laser-assisted Dacryocystorhinostomy for the Treatment of Primary Acquired Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction
Published on: October 13, 2017
Translacrimal Antrostomy: An Augmented Endoscopic Approach to the Maxillary Sinus
Hae Chan Park1, Sun A Han2, Young Chang Sim3
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul.
The Journal of Craniofacial Surgery
|June 22, 2026
Summary
Translacrimal antrostomy (TLA) offers a safe and effective alternative to conventional middle meatal antrostomy (MMA) for maxillary sinus access. TLA demonstrated superior outcomes with reduced postoperative mucosal edema and maintained long-term patency.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Surgical Innovation
- Rhinology
Background:
- Conventional middle meatal antrostomy (MMA) presents challenges in surgical accessibility and risks postoperative stenosis.
- Improved techniques for maxillary sinus access are needed to ensure long-term patency.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a novel translacrimal antrostomy (TLA) technique.
- To compare TLA outcomes with conventional MMA.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 64 patients undergoing TLA and 35 patients undergoing MMA.
- Evaluation of postoperative patency, mucosal status, and complications at 1, 3, and 6 months.
- Independent endoscopic assessment by two rhinologists.
Main Results:
- TLA achieved 85.2% patency without narrowing and showed low rates of mucosal edema (9.7%) and discharge.
- TLA resulted in significantly lower postoperative mucosal edema compared to MMA (9.7% vs. 34.2%, P=0.050).
- No significant complications like epiphora, numbness, or epistaxis were observed with TLA.
Conclusions:
- Translacrimal antrostomy (TLA) is a safe and effective procedure for maxillary sinus access.
- TLA provides additional surgical access and demonstrates better postoperative outcomes than conventional MMA.
- TLA is a viable alternative for treating various sinusitis types, including fungal and chronic rhinosinusitis.