Effects of functional endoscopic sinus surgery on maxillary sinus mucosa

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Regenerative Medicine
• Surgical Outcomes

Background:

• Chronic sinusitis often involves inflammation and damage to the maxillary sinus mucosa.
• Impaired ciliary function affects mucus clearance and sinus drainage.
• Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) aims to restore sinus ventilation and drainage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the changes in ciliary surface area of the maxillary sinus mucosa before and after FESS.
• To assess the regenerative capacity of the ciliated epithelium following surgical intervention.

Main Methods:

• Scanning electron microscopy and image analysis were used to quantify ciliary area.
• Maxillary sinus mucosal samples were collected preoperatively and 6-12 months postoperatively from 16 patients.
• Ciliary area was measured on the superolateral wall and at the ostium.

Main Results:

• Preoperative ciliary area was significantly lower at the ostium (39.9%) compared to the superolateral wall (60.7%).
• Postoperative ciliary area increased significantly in both regions, reaching 74.3% on the superolateral wall and 51.3% at the ostium.
• These findings demonstrate significant mucosal regeneration after FESS.

Conclusions:

• Maxillary sinus mucosa exhibits regenerative potential in chronic sinusitis patients treated with FESS.
• Improved ventilation and drainage following FESS facilitate the return of ciliated epithelium towards normal.
• FESS is effective in promoting the recovery of ciliary function in the maxillary sinus.