A golden experience: fifty years of experience managing the frontal sinus

Abstract

Objectives/Hypothesis: The frontal sinus is one of the most anatomically complex and inaccessible of the paranasal sinuses. As a result, surgeons have continually tried to improve surgical management of the frontal sinus. The senior author (c.w.g.) shares 50 years of experience managing the frontal sinus. Data Sources: PubMed literature search. Review Methods: Review of the literature regarding landmark innovations in frontal sinus surgery. Results: Open approaches established that the frontal sinus is accessible, and in certain circumstances, such as with large osteoma or papilloma, are still required. The endoscope changed the surgical landscape and allowed for greater finesse and decreased morbidity. Sinus balloon dilation is the newest change in frontal sinus management and shows promise in properly selected cases. Conclusion: Surgery of the frontal sinus continues to evolve and improve. Although there are new techniques, the older techniques are still pertinent.