Trans-superior meatal surgery: A targeted approach for isolated posterior ethmoid diseases

Abstract

BackgroundSurgical treatment for posterior ethmoid diseases has historically been performed through a trans-ethmoid approach which usually required medialization of the middle turbinate, a middle meatal antrostomy and total ethmoidectomy. This can destabilize the basal lamella of the middle turbinate and also sacrifices the integrity of ostiomeatal complex and the healthy bulla if the patient has the disease only in the posterior ethmoid sinus.The aim of this study is to present of a novel minimally disruptive approach for the management of isolated posterior ethmoid diseases. MethodsRetrospective case series analysis. Results19 patients with isolated posterior ethmoid fungal balls were operated on via a trans-superior meatal approach. The most common signs and symptoms were headache (78.9%), and purulent/mucoid discharge from the superior meatus (89.5%). The technique is described in detail with the preservation of the ostiomeatal complex and bulla ethmoidalis. Complete removal of the disease was achieved in all cases through this access, with no intra-operative complications. The posterior ethmoid cavity remained patent postoperatively in all patients. No recurrence was noted during the follow-up period which ranged from 6 to 12 months. ConclusionThis is a minimally invasive approach, which is safe and effective for the surgical management of isolated posterior ethmoid diseases.