If functional sinus surgery fails: a radical approach to sinus surgery

Radical surgery of the nose and paranasal sinuses was performed in 56 patients as a last resort for severe recurrent treatment-resistant rhinosinusitis. Surgery consists of removal of all walls between the nasal fossa and the paranasal sinuses, creating one cavity. All patients were permanently relieved of sinusitis and nasal obstruction, and other symptoms were greatly reduced. Morbidity is low in relation to preoperative symptoms. We conclude that radical sinus surgery is an effective last resort if functional sinus surgery repeatedly falls.