Abstract
(1) Background: The use of navigation systems is rarely necessary for routine sinus surgery. They may prove to be advantageous for difficult operations, for example, in finding structures that are difficult to reach, in the treatment of cancers, or in revisional surgery. Navigation systems are also said to have positive effects on the self-confidence of surgeons in stressful situations and in the training of doctors. (2) Methods: This retrospective study included patients who underwent surgical treatment for chronic sinusitis from 2012 to 2016 at the ENT clinic of the University Hospital, Erlangen. Two groups were formed; one includes patients without navigated sinus surgery, the other includes those with navigation. The incision–suture times of both groups and cost analysis are compared. An appropriate cost estimate for sinus surgery is determined. (3) Results: From the available results, no economically efficient navigation systems in sinus surgery at the ENT clinic can be shown. The main reason is that lengthening the operating time leads to higher costs. (4) Conclusions: Although the use of a navigation system for endonasal sinus surgery cannot be economically justified, it is an important tool, especially in cases with complex anatomical conditions, and the system is essential for training purposes.
Highlights
The intraoperative use of navigation devices has long been an integral part of surgical otorhinolaryngology
In terms of patient selection, the criticism may be raised that a search using classification systems will yield unspecific diagnoses and forms of treatment
A breakdown of operations according to separate areas of the paranasal sinuses, or based on specific procedures, was rejected because this proved difficult to analyze
Summary
The intraoperative use of navigation devices has long been an integral part of surgical otorhinolaryngology. These devices have so far been used mainly in endonasal endoscopic sinus surgery. The healthcare system and the hospital sector are increasingly transforming into a business system, based on the principle of economic efficiency. Navigation is shown to be advantageous in the treatment of recurrent cases of chronic polypoid sinusitis, for mucocele, and malignant tumors, as well as in locating the frontal and 4.0/). Economic efficiency can only be confirmed in exceptional cases
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