Usefulness of three-dimensional computed tomographic anatomy in endoscopic frontal recess surgery

Purpose The endoscopic bidimensional vision offered by the endoscope during endoscopic sinus surgery involves difficulty in visualizing surgical field depth which makes it difficult to learn this surgical technique and makes it necessary for the endoscopic surgeon to mentally create a three-dimensional (3D) picture of the paranasal sinuses anatomy. In particular, frontal recess surgery requires good knowledge of its anatomic position, also since it is necessary to use angled endoscopes, which distort the view, and angular instruments which are difficult to use. Purpose of this project is to offer to the endoscopic surgeon a detailed 3D model of the nose and paranasal sinuses with particular attention to the frontal recess. Methods A 3D reconstruction of the frontal recess and its related structures, starting from computer tomography scans of the human skull, was realized using a professional 3D graphics software. Results A detailed reconstruction of the main structures which contribute to form the frontal recess was obtained. Particular attention was paid when reproducing the agger nasi cells, uncinate process, ethmoidal bulla, anterior ethmoidal cells, frontoethmoidal cells and their anatomic variants. Conclusions This is the first experience reported in literature regarding this new technique of iconographic didactics applied to endoscopic sinus surgery. It represents a new frontier, which surpasses and integrates the previous didactic techniques to help the surgeon to mentally create a 3D image of the paranasal sinuses.