Evaluation of the frontonasal duct in frontal sinus fractures

Head Neck. 1989 Jan-Feb;11(1):46-50. doi: 10.1002/hed.2880110109.

Abstract

Successful management of frontal sinus fractures depends on correct identification of structural pathology, which may lead to inflammatory complications. Obstruction of the frontonasal duct is a significant factor predisposing to such complications and its evaluation is thus critical in the management of these fractures. Specific radiographic CT criteria and an intraoperative dye irrigation test are presented to determine the likelihood of frontonasal duct injury. Eighteen cases of frontal sinus fractures are reviewed, which have been treated based on these principles. A scheme is presented outlining the management of frontal sinus trauma using these methods.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Frontal Sinus / diagnostic imaging
  • Frontal Sinus / injuries*
  • Frontal Sinus / surgery
  • Humans
  • Nasal Cavity / diagnostic imaging*
  • Skull Fractures / diagnostic imaging*
  • Skull Fractures / surgery
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed