[Inverted papilloma of the nose and paranasal sinuses].

BACKGROUND

Inverted papilloma is a rare benign tumor of the nose and the paranasal sinuses. There is a controversial discussion concerning the operative approach. The epidemiology, postoperative results, and recurrence rates of endonasally and extranasally operated patients are analysed.

PATIENTS

Between 1984 and 1995, 25 patients with inverted papilloma were operated upon at the ENT Department St. Gallen, 18 patients by an endonasal microscopic approach, two by midfacial degloving and five through a lateral rhinotomy.

RESULTS

After a minimal follow-up of 12 months (mean follow-up 52 months), a recurrence rate of 29% for the external approach and 31% for the endonasal approach was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

In most cases it is possible to achieve a good result through an endonasal approach. External approaches are recommended in T4-tumors or carcinomas. A longtime follow-up is recommended for each case.