Early Practice: External Sinus Surgery and Procedures and Complications

Abstract

External approaches to the paranasal sinuses are rarely used in the endoscopic era. However, their indications for use have not changed, and in every surgeon's career those indications may present themselves. For residents training in the endoscopic era, these procedures are also very rarely seen. In this article, the external approaches to the maxillary, ethmoid, and frontal sinuses are described: their original descriptions, modern use, and potential complications. It is hoped that this article will serve to instruct residents and practitioners alike in these techniques.

Keywords: Caldwell-Luc approach; External ethmoidectomy; Frontal trephine; Osteoplastic flap.