The frontal osteoplastic flap: does it still have a place in rhinological surgery?

Abstract

AbstractObjective:To review outcomes and complications in a series of adults undergoing a frontal osteoplastic flap procedure without obliteration, for endoscopically inaccessible sinus disease.Material and method:Retrospective case note review of patients treated at Glasgow Royal Infirmary between January 2004 and October 2008.Results:Ten patients were identified (age range 19–81 years, mean age 46.3 years). No major intra- or post-operative complications occurred. There were three minor complications: superficial discharging wound, forehead swelling and haematoma.Conclusion:The frontal osteoplastic flap still has a role in frontal sinus surgery. With minor technical modifications, this procedure may be performed with minimal complication and morbidity for patients with endoscopically inaccessible frontal sinus disease.