A Rare Complication of Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: Maxillary Atelectasis-Induced Spontaneous Enophthalmos

Abstract

This may have been caused by an ostium occlusion with retention of secretions inducing sinus inflammation, osteolytic activity, and osseous remodeling of the sinus walls. A negative pressure may develop. When the pressure gradient exceeds the sinus wall tension, maxillary atelectasis and enophthalmos occur. Prevention of this complication of FESS should include making a patent naso-antral window, minimizing mucosal trauma, and careful postoperative sinoscopic treatment. A "functional" sinus is the goal.