Name of the Procedure:

Sinusotomy Frontal; Nonobliterative, with Osteoplastic Flap, Coronal Incision

Summary

This procedure is a surgical approach to access and treat the frontal sinus. It involves making a coronal incision (across the scalp) and creating an osteoplastic flap (a section of bone) to open the sinus without removing its walls, allowing for treatment of various sinus conditions.

Purpose

The procedure addresses chronic or severe frontal sinusitis, sinus tumors, or other conditions obstructing the sinus. The primary goal is to relieve symptoms, such as persistent headache and nasal congestion, by improving drainage and allowing direct treatment of the sinus cavity.

Indications

• Chronic frontal sinusitis unresponsive to medical treatment
• Frontal sinus tumors or cysts
• Sinus blockage causing recurrent infections
• Complications from previous sinus surgeries

Preparation

• Fasting for at least 8 hours before the procedure.
• Stopping certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) as advised by the doctor.
• Preoperative imaging studies like CT or MRI scans to plan the surgery.

Procedure Description

1. The patient receives general anesthesia.
2. A coronal incision is made across the scalp, extending from ear to ear.
3. The skin and soft tissues are carefully retracted to expose the frontal bone.
4. An osteoplastic flap is created by making cuts around the frontal sinus and carefully lifting the bone flap.
5. The sinus cavity is accessed, and any obstructions, infections, or tumors are treated.
6. The osteoplastic flap is replaced, and the incision is closed with sutures.
7. A dressing is applied to the surgical site to aid healing.

Duration

The procedure typically takes between 2 to 4 hours.

Setting

This surgery is performed in a hospital operating room.

Personnel

• Otolaryngologist (ENT surgeon)
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologist
• Operation room technicians

Risks and Complications

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Injury to surrounding tissues or structures, including the brain or eyes
• Scarring or poor wound healing
• Cerebrospinal fluid leak
• Loss of smell or taste
• Persistent sinus symptoms

Benefits

• Relief from chronic sinus pain and pressure
• Improved sinus drainage
• Reduced frequency of sinus infections
• Removal of tumors or cysts, if present Patients often notice significant symptom relief within a few weeks post-surgery.

Recovery

• Close monitoring in the hospital for the first 24 hours.
• Pain management typically involves prescription pain relievers.
• Swelling and bruising around the eyes and forehead will gradually diminish within 1-2 weeks.
• Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for 4-6 weeks.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and sinus function.

Alternatives

• Medical management with antibiotics, steroids, or nasal sprays.
• Endoscopic sinus surgery, a less invasive option without external incisions.
• Balloon sinuplasty, minimally invasive but may not be suitable for all cases. Each alternative has its pros and cons, such as lower risk and recovery time, but may not be as effective for severe or complicated sinus conditions.

Patient Experience

• Patients will be under general anesthesia during the procedure, so they will not feel pain or be aware of the surgery.
• Postoperative discomfort can include pain at the incision site, headache, and facial swelling.
• Pain management includes prescribed medications and cold compresses to reduce swelling.
• Full recovery and return to normal activities usually take about 4-6 weeks.