Irrigation of Maxillary Sinus through Middle Meatus versus Inferior Meatus: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Objective: To stimulate interest in irrigation of maxillary sinus through middle meatus and to compare this new technique of irrigation with antral wash through the inferoir meatus regarding it’s efficacy and complications. Methods: A total of 40 patients of chronic maxillary sinusitis or unresolved acute maxillary sinusitis were selected, 20 for middle meatus and 20 for inferior meatus irrigation, patients were randomly selected, middle meatal puncture was done by Karl Storz antrum sucker nozzle using 0 degree telescope and inferior meatus by Litzwiz antrum trocher and cannula. Any difficulties or complications were noted Results: The age of the patients ranged from 12-55 years, with mean age 34.9 years in middle meatal group and 38.7 years in inferior meatal group. There were 25 male and 15 female patients with male female ratio 1.67:1. No difficulties or any comlications were noted in middle meatus group whereas mispuncture, failure of puncture, haemorrhage and check swelling were noted in some patients of inferior meatus group. Conclusion: It is concluded that this new technique of puncturing the middle meatus is a safe, easy and effective procedure of irrigation of the maxillary sinus instead of antral wash out via the inferior meatus for the treatment of chronic maxillary sinusitis