When is an operation necessary and how is it performed?
If the diagnosis is confirmed and conservative measures, including antibiotic therapy, do not allow the sinusitis to heal, it is possible that chronic sinusitis has developed. In this case, surgery is often recommended. A cyst originating from a tooth also limits the functionality of the maxillary sinus.
A cyst is a cavity filled with liquid. Surgical removal of this cyst is advisable. If a previous operation on the upper jaw has led to an open connection between the oral cavity and the maxillary sinus and subsequent sinusitis, surgical intervention is also recommended.
In addition, foreign bodies that have entered the maxillary sinus and caused inflammatory processes must be surgically removed. Usually this operation is performed according to the principle of “keyhole surgery” with the help of an endoscope, microscope or magnifying glasses. The aim is to keep incisions and scars as minimal as possible.
In some cases, it is sufficient to widen the openings of the maxillary sinuses to allow fluids and mucus to drain away. In this case, the entrance to the maxillary sinus is cleared. Rarely the entire mucous membrane is cleared out, as it was done in the past during the classic radical surgery of the maxillary sinus.
This is followed by a follow-up treatment, which includes, for example, local removal of secretions and bark to prevent tissue adhesions in the nose. In order to avoid a renewed sinusitis, certain medications, so-called coticoids, are often recommended. After the operation, checks should initially be carried out at close intervals over a period of several weeks.
Sinusitis after wisdom tooth surgery
Isolated sinusitis is usually caused by tooth root processes. In the course of a wisdom tooth operation in the upper jaw, the mucosa of the maxillary sinus can be injured under certain circumstances. This allows bacteria to enter the maxillary sinus and cause an inflammatory reaction.
In addition, the roots of the teeth reach as far as the maxillary sinus, so that if a wisdom tooth is removed, the maxillary sinus can be opened. In this case, this would also be the entry point for bacteria.A connection between the oral cavity and the maxillary sinus can be created. This is called an oroantral fistula. In order to prevent this and thus an inflammation of the maxillary sinus, this area is closed by the dentist with a so-called Rehrmann plastic. After the operation, regular check-ups are carried out by the dentist or oral surgeon.
