Endoscopic frontal sinus surgery through the route anterior to ethmoidal bulla

OBJECTIVE To discuss the method,efficacy and safety of endoscopic frontal sinus surgery in the route anterior to ethmoidal bulla. METHODS Twenty three adult patients(36 sides)with chronic frontal sinusitis received endoscopic frontal sinus surgery in the route anterior to ethmoidal bulla. The efficacy and safety were evaluated.RESULTS The ostia of frontal sinus were successfully opened with this method in 20 cases,and the other 3 cases also succeeded with the help of the frontal nail for location. No serious complications occurred.After following- up 12 to 39 months postoperatively,the symptoms vanished in all cases and no recurrence occurred. The endoscopic examinations showed well-opening of frontal sinus ostia.CONCLUSION Surgical procedure anterior to ethmoidal bulla is a safe and effective surgical model for frontal sinus lesions,and is therefore worthy of broad recommendation.