Complications in endoscopic intranasal ethmoidectomy: an update

Laryngoscope. 1989 Jul;99(7 Pt 1):686-90. doi: 10.1288/00005537-198907000-00004.

Abstract

A previous publication by this author discussing complications of endoscopic intranasal ethmoidectomy indicated an overall complication rate of 29% in 90 patients (17% in 150 ethmoidectomies). Compared to published complications rates for traditional intranasal ethmoidectomy (2.7% to 3.7%), 17% is alarming and of concern. The complication results in 300 ethmoidectomies performed on 180 patients are presented. The overall complication rate was 9.3%. Only two further complications have occurred since the first reported series: a cerebrospinal fluid leak and one case of subcutaneous emphysema. Methods and techniques that have led to the reduction of complications are briefly discussed. Endoscopic ethmoidectomy is a valid, safe procedure in experienced hands.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Blindness / etiology
  • Cerebrospinal Fluid
  • Child
  • Endoscopy*
  • Ethmoid Sinus / surgery*
  • Female
  • Hemorrhage / etiology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Methods
  • Middle Aged
  • Postoperative Complications*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Subcutaneous Emphysema / etiology