From the Guidelines
A foreign body in a patient's paranasal sinus should be removed promptly by an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) or a qualified healthcare provider, typically during endoscopy, to prevent inflammatory responses and potential complications. The management of a foreign body in the paranasal sinus involves evaluation during endoscopy, where the foreign body can be identified and removed, usually at the time of surgery 1. This approach is crucial because foreign bodies, including dental material, can create a variety of inflammatory responses and must typically be removed to prevent complications such as obstruction, infection, and tissue damage. Key steps in the management include:
- Evaluation during endoscopy to identify the foreign body
- Removal of the foreign body, usually at the time of surgery
- Involvement of oral surgeons in the treatment of odontogenic sinus disease
- Possible use of dental CT scans for further evaluation, although interpretation may be challenging 1. After removal, the patient may be prescribed saline nasal rinses to clear residual debris and reduce inflammation, and antibiotics if there are signs of infection. It is essential for the patient to seek immediate medical attention and avoid forceful nose blowing, sniffing, or attempting self-removal, as these actions may push the foreign body deeper into the sinus cavity. The goal of prompt removal is to prevent potential complications such as sinusitis or more serious infections, especially since foreign bodies can harbor bacteria and absorb moisture, making them particularly problematic if not removed promptly.
From the Research
Management of Foreign Body in Paranasal Sinus
- There are no research papers to assist in answering this question as the provided studies focus on the treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis and acute sinusitis with antibiotics, rather than the management of a foreign body in the paranasal sinus 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The studies discuss the use of antibiotics such as amoxicillin-clavulanate in the treatment of sinusitis, but do not address the removal or management of foreign bodies in the paranasal sinus.
- Further research or consultation with a medical professional would be necessary to determine the appropriate management for a foreign body in a patient's paranasal sinus.