[Endoscopy of the maxillary sinus. Diagnostic and therapeutic value in chronic sinusitis]

Sinus endoscopy is now well established as an essential exploratory procedure for the study of rhinosinus affections. By direct endocavitary observation, after identification and evacuation of possible secretions, it enables the anatomical and functional state of the mucosa to be studied, as well as that of the ostial region. For the maxillary sinus, the most easily accessible, direct endoscopic examination has become indispensable for a precise diagnosis of any chronic inflammatory or infections process, when associated with cyto-bacteriologic, colorimetric, manometric and possibly histologic investigations, completing clinical and radiologic findings when necessary. Endoscopy can also often act as the primary therapeutic gesture, its evacuating and aerating properties relieving ostial dyspermeability, the principal cause of chronic maxillary sinusitis. Diagnostic and therapeutic features in this particularly frequent affection are discussed with respect to the use of endoscopy.