The utility of concurrent rhinoplasty and sinus surgery: A 2-team approach

Objective: To evaluate the safety and efficiency of and patient satisfaction with a 2-team approach for combined rhinoplasty and sinus surgery. Methods: We conducted a retrospective medical chart analysis of consecutive patients with sinus disease and functional nasal obstruction. Forty-four patients (29 women and 15 men; age range, 22-75 years) had severe nasal obstruction with chronic sinusitis and were found to have indications for this procedure. All patients were followed up for a minimum of 6 months after surgery. Patients completed a standardized questionnaire at the time of medical chart review, and 36 patients completed a telephone interview. Results: All 44 patients underwent rhinoplasty with an endoscopic sinus procedure. Twenty-seven procedures (61%) were endonasal, whereas 17 (39%) were open rhinoplasty. Patients with internal nasal valve collapse underwent 28 butterfly grafts, 6 spreader grafts, and 8 batten grafts. The endoscopic sinus procedures consisted of maxillary antrostomy (30/44 [68%]) and ethmoidectomy (28/44 [63%]). Overall, 20 (65%) of 31 patients reported a postsurgical nasal airway that was significantly improved. Most sinus symptoms were resolved postoperatively, with 25 (71%) of 35 patients describing their improvement as significant. Thirty-two (92%) of 36 patients stated that they would recommend the concurrent procedure. Conclusion: Patients presenting with nasal obstruction and chronic sinusitis tolerated combined rhinoplasty and sinus procedures without added morbidity.