Management of frontal sinus fractures: A review of the literature.
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Date
2013-01-01
Authors
Kanu, O.O.
James, O.
Bankole, O.O.
Adeyemo, W.L.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Nigerian Journal of Experimental and Clinical Biosciences
Abstract
Aim: The aim of this paper is to conduct a literature review on the clinical anatomy of
the frontal sinus as it relates to its implication in frontal sinus fractures (FSFs), as well
as review the contemporary opinions on the management of these fractures. Materials
and Methods: A computerized literature search of PubMed and Medline was conducted
for publications on the clinical anatomy and management of FSFs. Search phrases were
“frontal sinus” combined with “management”, “treatment”, and “anatomy”. The Boolean
operator ‘AND’ was used to narrow the searches. Result: FSFs account for 5-15% of all
maxillofacial injuries and are associated with 32% of panfacial and maxillary injuries. The
FSFs may result from high-velocity impacts, such as motor vehicle accidents and assaults;
blunt or penetrating force. The potential for intracranial injuries, esthetic deformities, and
late mucocele formation is high. The treatment goals of FSFs are an accurate diagnosis,
avoidance of short- and long-term complications, return of normal sinus function, and
re-establishment of the premorbid facial contour. Recently, several treatment protocol
with greater emphasis on the nasofrontal outfl ow tract (NFOT) injury are described in
the literature, however, controversies still abound on effectiveness of these protocols in
reducing the attending complications. Conclusion: The management of FSFs presents
a unique and challenging problem for the contemporary surgeons. A clear understanding
of corrective techniques is essential when approaching these challenging injuries. Each
treatment method has its advocates, and controversies still abound regarding indications,
applications, and ultimate success in given situations.
Description
Keywords
Frontal sinus fractures , Management , Review
Citation
Kanu OO, James O, Bankole OO, Adeyemo W.L. Management of frontal sinus fractures: A review of the literature. Nigerian Journal of Experimental and Clinical Biosciences 2013;1:3-9.