Nasal and paranasal sinus endoscopy. A diagnostic and surgical approach to recurrent sinusitis.

Our endoscopic concept of the diagnosis and surgical treatment of recurrent sinusitis is based on Messerklinger's finding that almost all infections of the frontal and maxillary sinuses are rhinogenic. They are secondary to infection foci in their prechambers in the anterior ethmoid, especially in the ethmoidal infundibulum and the frontal recess, spreading from there to the dependent larger sinuses. Consequently, our functional endoscopic sinus surgery is aimed at these infection foci in the ethmoid, clearing mucosal contact areas, stenotic clefts and diseased cells. Ventilation and drainage of frontal and maxillary sinuses are re-established via their natural routes. There is no need for fenestration via the inferior meatus. Disease in the larger sinuses then usually heals without the mucosa having actually been touched. In our experience, this leaves hardly any indication for external or more radical procedures. The technique of endoscopic diagnosis and surgery are described in detail.