A prelacrimal approach technique to overcome the limitation of the narrow lacrimal recess.

PURPOSE: The distance between the anterior wall of the maxillary sinus and the nasolacrimal duct has been classified into three types by Simmen, in which type I (< 3 mm) is the least feasible for a prelacrimal approach. The aim of our study is to present a surgical technique which overcomes the anatomical limitation of the narrow lacrimal recess (type I) in the management of inverted papilloma in the maxillary sinus.

METHODS

Case series.

RESULTS

Eight patients with type I lacrimal recess underwent surgical resection for inverted papilloma in the maxillary sinus via a prelacrimal approach. The technique is described in detail in the article and essentially involves exposure of the nasolacrimal duct using a diamond burr. Complete tumor excision was achieved in all cases through this access, with no significant intra-operative complications.

CONCLUSIONS

This prelacrimal approach technique is safe and effective for the management of inverted papilloma in maxillary sinuses with a type I lacrimal recess configuration.