Minimally Invasive Technique to Reduce the Isolated Anterior Wall Fracture of the Frontal Sinus.

Abstract

Conventional open reduction and internal fixation of frontal sinus anterior wall fractures are associated with risks of visible scarring and limited access to the nasofrontal duct. The goal of this study was to report the minimally invasive surgical techniques and their results in cases with frontal sinus anterior wall fractures. A retrospective study was performed on 20 consecutive cases of isolated anterior wall fractures of the frontal sinus between July, 2008 and February, 2017. Causes of injury, interval between the injury and operation, and operation time were reviewed. The fractures were reduced using the minimally invasive techniques of endoscopic endonasal reduction or reduction through a small trephination. Anatomical and aesthetic outcomes were evaluated, and postoperative complications were reviewed. The fractures were reduced with endoscopic endonasal techniques in 11 patients and through a small trephination with a minimal incision in the forehead in 9 patients. The fractures were successfully reduced in all cases. The mean follow-up period was 21.2 months, and no postoperative complications were observed. For isolated anterior wall fractures of the frontal sinus, minimally invasive techniques, such as endonasal endoscopic reduction or reduction through a small trephination, are safe and effective options.