Endoscopic treatment of sphenoid sinusitis.

Juxtaposed between the posterior nasal cavity and skull base, the diseased sphenoid sinus presents unique challenges when surgical drainage is required. Endoscopic techniques have gained widespread popularity for the treatment of sphenoid sinusitis, yet the efficacy of such treatment remains largely unknown. Thirty-four patients who underwent endoscopic sphenoidotomy were monitored over a period of 6 months to 5 years. Surgery was performed with the superior turbinate used as the key landmark for identification and enlargement of the natural sphenoid ostium. Surgical access was through either a transnasal or transethmoid approach, depending on whether disease was limited to the sphenoid sinus. Prospective analysis of 26 patients with established outcome measures demonstrated a significant reduction in facial pain, nasal drainage, and congestion 6 months after surgery (p < 0.0001). Medication use was also reduced but to a lesser extent (p < 0.05). Endoscopic sphenoidotomy appears to be a safe technique that effectively reduces patient morbidity associated with sphenoid sinusitis.