J Rhinol.  2020 Nov;27(2):132-134. 10.18787/jr.2020.00323.

Long-Standing Blades of Scissors in Paranasal Sinus Over 40 Years

• Choi JE
• Kim HJ
• Chung SK

• KMID: 2508959
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.18787/jr.2020.00323

Abstract

Foreign bodies in the sinus are rare entities that are often associated with trauma. This paper presents a case of a metallic foreign body that was retained without any symptoms for over 40 years. A skull X-ray and computed tomography scans showed blades of scissors inside the maxillary sinus, extending to the middle meatus without affecting vital structures. The foreign body was successfully removed by an endoscopic approach. There were no complications during and after the surgery. The presence of retained foreign bodies in the maxillofacial region is rarely discussed in previous publications. This manuscript focuses on the asymptomatic period of this foreign body and aims to discuss the necessity and feasibility of a wait-and-see approach in selected cases.

Keyword

Maxillary sinus; Foreign body; Endoscopic sinus surgery

Figure

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  Fig. 1. Preoperative CT scan demonstrating the location of metallic foreign body (blades of scissors) (coronal; A, axial; B).

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  Fig. 2. Metallic foreign bodies discovered during surgery. A: Endoscopic image of the foreign body retained in middle meatus during surgery. Two sets of blades were successfully removed via endoscopic approach (asterisk showing septum, arrow designating middle turbinate). B: Photograph demonstrate the rusted metallic foreign body removed by surgery.

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