Occurrence of Middle Turbinate Lateralization after Axillary Flap Approach to the Frontal Recess, AYMAN SAMIR, NASSIM T. GHOBRIAL, FADI M. GHARIB, ADEL S. EL-ANTABLY and MOHAMED AL-AYADI
Abstract
Background: The Axillary Flap Approach (AFA) to the frontal recess improves visualization and clearance and de-creases the use of angled endoscopes. However, some argue that it destabilizes the Middle Turbinate (MT) and increases risk of Middle Turbinate Lateralization (MTL).
Objective: To establish rate of middle turbinate laterali-zation after axillary flap approach.
Patients and Methods: This retrospective study was conducted on 30 patients underwent axillary flap approach to the frontal recess. Post-operative follow-up nasal endoscopy was done after 6 months. Presence of MTL and ability to evaluate the frontal recess were recorded. Cases were excluded if the MT was absent.
Results: A total of 30 patients (54 operated sides) were included in the study. Overall rate of MTL was 13% (7 sides of total 54 sides) and adhesions in the frontal recess was 5.6% (3 sides of total 54 sides).
Conclusion: The axillary flap approach yielded a 13% MTL in this study. This rate appears consistent with reports in the literature that did not use the axillary flap.