Sinusotomies

A sinusotomy is a surgical procedure to create an opening into one of the paranasal sinuses. These sinuses are air-filled cavities located in the bones of the skull, surrounding the nasal cavity. Sinusotomies are typically performed to treat chronic sinusitis, a condition characterized by long-term inflammation of the sinus lining, or to relieve blockages that impede proper sinus drainage.

The procedure can be approached in several ways. Traditionally, an external approach was common, involving an incision on the face to access the sinus. More recently, endoscopic sinus surgery has become the standard. This minimally invasive technique uses an endoscope, a thin, rigid tube with a camera and light, inserted through the nostrils. Specialized instruments are then used through the nasal passage to access and open the affected sinus.

Depending on the specific sinus involved and the surgical goal, different types of sinusotomies exist. A sphenoidotomy targets the sphenoid sinus, located deep within the skull. An ethmoidectomy involves opening the ethmoid sinuses, a complex network of small cavities. Maxillary sinusotomies address the maxillary sinuses, located in the cheekbones. Frontal sinusotomies are performed on the frontal sinuses, situated in the forehead.

The primary goal of a sinusotomy is to improve sinus ventilation and drainage. This can alleviate symptoms such as facial pain and pressure, nasal congestion, and recurrent infections. Recovery time varies depending on the extent of the surgery and the individual patient.