The role of mitomycin C in surgery of the frontonasal recess: a prospective open pilot study.

BACKGROUND

Mitomycin C (MMC) inhibits fibroblast proliferation. The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of MMC in reducing frontal ostium stenosis after endoscopic sinus surgery.

METHODS

A prospective open pilot study was conducted in 28 patients who had undergone one or more previous surgical interventions for frontal sinusitis. MMC solution was applied to the frontal ostial region via an endoscopic or combined endoscopic and external approach. Patency of the frontal ostium was evaluated endoscopically during regular follow-up. If restenosis was observed further, endoscopic application of MMC was undertaken.

RESULTS

There were 17 men and 11 women (mean age, 51.7 years; range, 26-86 years). Mean number of applications was 1.5 (range, 1:3). Mean follow-up was 19 months (range, 6-32 months). Patency rate was 86%.

CONCLUSION

Mitomycin appears to have an important role in reducing postoperative scarring, which may obviate the need for repeated and more extensive surgery.