Utility of Image-Guidance in Frontal Sinus Surgery

Abstract

The frontal sinus can present a challenging surgical dissection for the endoscopic surgeon. Image guidance as a surgical adjunct has become widely accepted for surgeries in this area. It can help verify vital structures and manage disorienting surgical conditions, improving surgeon confidence in performing safer and more complete surgery. It is relied upon heavily for placement of limited external frontal sinusotomies for disease beyond the endoscopic reach, and for mapping the frontal sinus for osteoplastic flap bony cuts. Its use has contributed to the expanding role of endoscopic surgical approaches for paranasal sinus inflammatory and neoplastic disease.

Keywords: Frontal; Frontal sinus; Image guidance; Navigation; Rhinosinusitis; Sinusitis.