Direct approach to the anterior and lateral part of the maxillary sinus with an endoscope

Abstract

Objective: The Caldwell-Luc (CL) approach with a sublabial incision is used to manipulate the anterior wall of the maxillary sinus. Paresthesia is one of the major complications associated with the CL approach. We developed a new method, "direct approach to the anterior and lateral part of the maxillary sinus with an endoscope" (DALMA), that negates the need for a sublabial incision and minimizes dental paresthesia by reducing the risk of anterior superior alveolar nerve injury. This study aimed to describe how to perform the DALMA technique, and to review its effectiveness and associated complications.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 10 patients who had received DALMA.

Results: Ten patients underwent DALMA. The anterior superior alveolar nerve was identified in all patients. Access to the lateral side beyond the infraorbital canal and anterior wall of the maxillary sinus was achieved.

Conclusions: DALMA is a simple, effective, and minimally invasive technique that can be used as an alternative to CL with sublabial incision.

Keywords: Anterior superior alveolar nerve; Craniomaxillofacial surgery; DALMA; Maxillectomy; Nasal tumor; Rhinology.