Middle turbinate stabilization technique in endoscopic sinus surgery
R. S. Thornton
Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Louisiana State University Medical Center, USA.
BACKGROUND: Lateralization of the middle turbinate with scarring and
obstruction of the middle meatus after endoscopic ethmoidectomy has
accounted for a high percentage of postoperative complications. OBJECTIVE:
To evaluate a suture stabilization technique of the middle turbinates in an
attempt to solve this problem and preserve the middle turbinate. DESIGN:
Retrospective chart review of 31 consecutive patients undergoing endoscopic
sinus surgery with suture stabilization of the middle turbinate. RESULTS:
With the technique of suture stabilization of the middle turbinate in 60
operated-on sides of 31 patients, 59 sides showed the middle meatus to be
patent without synechia or maxillary sinus ostium obstruction
postoperatively. CONCLUSION: The complication of lateralization of the
middle turbinate with scarring and obstruction of the middle meatus after
endoscopic ethmoidectomy can be prevented with suture stabilization of the
middle turbinate, and the middle turbinate can be preserved.
