This series of pictures are from a horse that was affected by an ethmoid hematoma located in the frontal and maxillary sinuses. In most horses the growth is accessible with an endoscope for treatment by injection of formalin into the mass. In this horse the majority of the mass was located within the sinus cavity thereby requiring a surgical approach directly into the sinus.
Sinus surgery is technically demanding, both surgically and medically. Sinus anatomy is very complex and surgical management requires an intimate knowledge of the relationship between all the sinus cavities and their respective approaches. Severe short term hemorrhage is common when removing sinus masses making medical support an integral part of a successful outcome. Blood restoration products or whole blood transfusions are used based on the degree of blood loss. It is uncommon to have these complications when a sinus approach is used to treat dental disease.
Minor post-operative complications are common with sinus surgery and most often are dependant on the specific disease process that was treated.
Prior to performing sinus surgery our clients receive consultation from the surgeon regarding alternative treatments (if any), possible complications specific to their problem, and post-operative expectations.
Lateral rad:
Round radiopaque mass present extending from the frontomaxillary opening into the maxillary sinus.
Sinus Endoscopy:
Typical appearance of an Ethmoid Hematoma using a flexible endoscope passed up the nose.