Management of frontal sinus fungal osteomyelitis in the COVID 19 era: A case series

J Craniomaxillofac Surg. 2022 Sep;50(9):692-698. doi: 10.1016/j.jcms.2022.07.010. Epub 2022 Jul 31.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to review different approaches and outcomes in the management of post-COVID-19 frontal sinus fungal osteomyelitis. The study included 19 patients with frontal sinus fungal osteomyelitis. The main line of treatment was surgical debridement (sequestrectomy). Approaches included combined external and endoscopic approaches (n = 15) and pure endoscopic approaches (n = 4) according to the extent and accessibility of the sequestrum. Postoperative healing was satisfactory in all patients. All patients returned to their normal daily activity within 4-6 weeks, without residual or recurrent frontal sinus infection, osteomyelitis or need for revision procedures. Within the limitation of this case series, it seems that there is no need to adopt a new therapy regimen for treatment of frontal sinus fungal osteomyelitis because the conventional and well-known treatment approach combining surgery and antifungal drugs seems to work well. However, early, and adequate debridement and sequestrectomy is crucial. Furthermore, an open approach may be required according to the extent of osteomyelitis.

Keywords: COVID-19; Frontal sinus; Invasive fungal sinusitis; Osteomyelitis; Sequestrum.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antifungal Agents / therapeutic use
  • COVID-19*
  • Endoscopy
  • Frontal Sinus* / surgery
  • Frontal Sinusitis* / complications
  • Frontal Sinusitis* / surgery
  • Humans
  • Osteomyelitis* / surgery

Substances

  • Antifungal Agents