[Orbital and intracranial complications of rhinosinusitis].

Rhinogenic orbital and intracranial complications occur in 0.8 and 0.01% of patients with rhinosinusitis, respectively. The author recognizes 9 and 8 forms of rhinogenic orbital and intracranial complications, respectively. Conservative treatment is preferable in non-purulent orbital and intracranial complications resultant from acute inflammation of the paranasal sinuses. In the above complications taking place in chronic paranasal inflammation it is valid to conduct a sanitizing operation on the paranasal sinuses. Purulent intracranial and orbital complications dictate the necessity of major surgical treatment of the affected paranasal sinuses and intracranial focus in active antibacterial, dehydration, desensitizing and strengthening therapy. Prognosis of the orbital and intracranial complications at present is more favourable.