Computed Tomography and Anatomical Findings Encountered During Revision Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is a well-established strategy for the treatment of rhinosinusitis. However, some patients do not respond to primary surgery and may require revision surgery. Anatomic alterations due to prior sinus surgery, scarring and adhesions as well as associated chronic mucosal inflammation can make revision procedures challenging. In order to shed more light on the difficulties faced by surgeons performing revision FESS, a study was performed to identify areas of recurrent disease on computed tomography in patients undergoing revision surgery, as well as to evaluate intraoperative findings during revision FESS.Materials and Method: A hospital-based, interventional, non-randomized study was undertaken in 40 patients who underwent revision FESS. Multiple clinical parameters were recorded including number and type of previous surgeries, latest CT scans of the nose and paranasal sinuses, as well as intraoperative findings.Results: Our findings demonstrated the diffuse nature of mucosal disease on CT in our patient population. Fibrosis and adhesion formation were the most common intraoperative findings on revision sinus surgery along with residual air cells, polypoid mucosal regrowth, and middle meatal antrostomy stenosis.Conclusion: A careful evaluation of the patient is needed while contemplating revision surgery. A recent high-resolution CT scan is of paramount importance. The most common areas of disease recurrence are the ostiomeatal complex and residual ethmoids, and these areas should be given careful attention.