American journal of rhinology & allergy
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Am J Rhinol Allergy · May 2012
Retrieval of projectile foreign bodies from the paranasal sinuses and skull base.
Penetrating trauma to the paranasal sinuses and skull base with retained foreign bodies represents a unique challenge for head and neck surgeons. Management of these injuries is complicated by associated injuries and the proximity to vital neurovascular structures. This study was designed to review the clinical experience with retained sinonasal and skull base projectile foreign bodies at a single academic tertiary care institution. ⋯ Although not all retained foreign bodies after penetrating trauma to the head require removal, those that are safely accessible and at risk for infectious complications should be recovered. The timing and approach of retrieval are dictated by the clinical scenario.