Olfaction and Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

Abstract

Recent advances in endoscopic evaluation of the nose and paranasal sinuses and endoscopic sinus surgery, coupled with the development of standardized testing of olfactory acuity, have permitted improved correction of olfactory dysfunction. Conversely, increase in the number of operations performed has increased the number of injuries to the olfactory pathways. The mechanisms of loss and potential preventive and corrective measures are reviewed with a goal to minimize the numbers of these complications.