sphenoidotomy

Sphenoidotomy is a surgical procedure that involves creating an opening into the sphenoid sinus. The sphenoid sinus is one of the four paranasal sinuses, located deep within the skull behind the nose and eyes. This surgery is typically performed to treat various conditions affecting the sphenoid sinus, such as chronic sinusitis, polyps, tumors, or mucocele formation. It can also be used to access and remove pituitary adenomas and other skull base tumors.

The procedure is most commonly performed endoscopically, using a small, rigid tube with a camera attached (an endoscope) inserted through the nostrils. This minimally invasive approach allows surgeons to visualize the sphenoid sinus and surrounding structures with high magnification and clarity. Specialized instruments are then passed through the nasal passages to enlarge the natural opening of the sphenoid sinus or create a new one. In some cases, a traditional open approach may be necessary, but this is much less common.

Recovery time varies depending on the extent of the surgery and the patient's individual healing process. Post-operative care typically involves nasal saline rinses and avoiding strenuous activity. Potential risks associated with sphenoidotomy include bleeding, infection, damage to surrounding structures like the optic nerves or carotid arteries, and cerebrospinal fluid leaks, although these are rare. The goal of sphenoidotomy is to improve sinus drainage, alleviate symptoms, and facilitate the treatment of underlying pathology.