Use of anteriorly based pericranial flap in frontal sinus obliteration

Abstract

Objective In an era of endoscopic sinus surgery, frontal sinus obliteration continues to remain an important treatment option in chronic frontal sinus disease. Numerous avascular obliterative materials including fat, muscle, cancellous bone, and hydroxyapatite have been used in this procedure. In this article, we describe a vascularized anteriorly based pericranial flap to obliterate frontal sinus. Study Design Retrospective chart review of patients referred to tertiary care hospital between 1996 and 2003. Methods Records of the patients who underwent this procedure were reviewed. Demographics, indications, and immediate and late complications were recorded. A phone questionnaire was used to assess patient satisfaction with the outcome. Results A total of 12 patients underwent frontal sinus obliteration with this technique. Mean follow-up was 40 months. None of the patients developed recurrent frontal sinusitis. All of the patients were pleased with the outcome. Conclusion Pericranial flap is a highly vascularized flap that is easily harvested and is an effective and viable modality for obliterating frontal sinus. EBM rating: C-4