The cyst of the maxillary sinus cavity - what's to be done?

   The cyst of the maxillary sinus cavity (sinus of Highmore) is of high occurrence in the practice of ENT specialist. Usually the cyst does not cause any symptoms and is accidentally detected during a preventive examination. In general symptoms express in case of large cysts.

   What is a cyst? - A cavity filled with a liquid of amber color and surrounded by a thin coat adhered to the walls of the maxillary sinus cavity.

   The reason for the formation of a cyst is a glandular obstruction. This gland produces mucus in the maxillary sinus cavity (in the normal condition). The case usually occurs against the background of often inflammatory processes in the maxillary sinus cavity such as runny nose, allergic rhinitis, frequent maxillary sinusitis.

   Symptoms of cyst of the maxillary sinus cavity - heaviness in the cheek area, eyes, upper teeth, headaches, nasal congestion, rheum, flowing back into the nasal pharynx, lingering cold.

   The diagnosis is disclosed in accordance to X-ray control or computed tomography of the paranasal sinuses, where a cyst is found as a rounded shadow. In some cases, the X-ray control is insufficiently informative. However by means of computer tomography it is possible to disclose more precise diagnosis and  determine the size and location of the cyst and, the location where the cyst is adhered.

   Cyst of the maxillary sinus cavity is subject of surgical treatment only. The most modern and safe method of cyst excision is the endoscopic surgery of maxillary sinus cavity. In such case it is possible to widen transnasally the natural anastamosis (gap of maxillary sinus) of maxillary sinus cavity (excluding external incisions) and to excise the cyst using of special medical tools.  Usually during the surgery the cyst is opened, the cystic fluid drains, then its coat is excised to avoid recurrent cyst formation. Patient dismissal will take place after 3-4  hours of postoperative supervision on the day of surgery. The bioresorbable hemostatic sponges will be used in order to prevent postoperative hemorrhage (instead of tampons).