Purpose: Sinonasal inverted papilloma (IP) is a benign but locally aggressive tumor for which an endoscopic or external surgical approach is the treatment of choice. Complete resection of IP involving the frontal sinus/recess forms one of the most challenging procedures in the field of sinonasal surgery. This study aims to present our experience in the management of extensive frontal sinus IP based on the attachment sites of the tumor.
Methods: Thirteen patients with IP involving the frontal sinus/recess between 2010 and 2018 were presented. The data collected include demographic data, tumor attachment sites, tumor extension, tumor staging according to Meng's staging system, surgical approach, recurrence, and follow-up.
Results: The patients were successfully treated by endoscopic surgery without any additional external approaches. The attachment sites of the IP were multifocal in some patients. No recurrence was identified after an average follow-up period of 52.88 months. No major intra- or postoperative complications were observed.
Conclusion: The present study shows that attachment-oriented excision for IP involving the frontal sinus/recess is an acceptable approach. Surgeons should select the surgical approach based on the attachment sites of the tumor rather than the extension of the tumor. Even more importantly, the tumor attachment sites should include the sites of adhesion to the bone wall and the site of origin.