Endoscopic anatomic distances on the lateral nasal wall.

OBJECTIVE: Functional endoscopic sinus surgery has become popularized during the last decade all over the world. Knowledge about the intricate anatomy of the nasal cavity, the ethmoid labyrinth, and related structures is of vital importance for the endoscopic sinus surgeon to avoid probable complications. This study was undertaken to provide a set of reference distances to the endoscopic surgeons.
METHOD: In this surgical anatomic study, the distances of special anatomic landmarks from the anterior nasal spine were measured during the endoscopic dissection. The procedure was performed in 50 cadavers and measurements were done by the use of straight surgical guide under endoscopic vision.
CONCLUSIONS: Optimum attention should be concentrated on vital structures such as optic nerve and internal carotid artery at posterior rhinobasis after approximately 75 mm. Surgical distances of critical anatomic landmarks on the lateral nasal wall from anterior nasal spine should be kept in mind during surgical interventions.