Complications of endoscopic sinus surgery.

Endoscopic sinus surgery has become popular during recent years. We report the complications of endoscopic sinus surgery in 593 patients in whom 1235 sides were operated on. Forty-five patients had complications, in three of whom they were systemic. The remaining 42 patients had complications on 52 (4.2%) sides; these complications were mostly minor. In 0.3% of the sides operated on, potentially serious complications, such as orbital hematoma or cerebrospinal fluid leak, were seen. None of these patients developed loss of vision or meningitis. Absence of the middle turbinate is a risk factor for developing complications. We conclude that endoscopic sinus surgery is a safe procedure in experienced hands.