Challenges in the Management of Sphenoid Inverted Papilloma

Abstract

Background Inverted papilloma (IP) arising in the sphenoid sinus is extremely rare. Management of sphenoid sinus IP is especially challenging because of the paucity of sinonasal symptoms on presentation and the inherent surgical risks associated with the anatomic location of the sphenoid sinus. Methods We performed a retrospective review of medical records of all patients with IP arising within the sphenoid sinus. Results A total of five patients were identified. All patients were managed with endoscopic resection. The most common presenting symptom was headache (three patients). The mean follow-up period was 37.6 months (range, 10–79 months). Two patients with erosive skull base lesions adjacent to the internal carotid artery were managed with a staged endoscopic resection. Only one patient developed a recurrence after 38 months and underwent revision endoscopic resection. Conclusions Endoscopic management of sphenoid IP allows maximal resection with minimal morbidity and facilitates endoscopic postoperative surveillance. Complete preoperative radiological assessment of tumor extent is essential. Preoperative medical therapy can help normalize inflamed mucosa and minimize intraoperative bleeding. For large erosive IP, surgical risks may be minimized by considering a staged resection and using computer-aided surgery.