The lothrop and extended lothrop procedures

Abstract

Advanced endoscopic frontal sinus surgery, including the endoscopic modified Lothrop procedure (EMLP), requires a thorough understanding of the anatomy of the frontal recess and its variations. A stepwise algorithm allows for a graded approach for refractory disease of the frontal sinus. The EMLP, although technically challenging, is associated with a high rate of efficacy and may help avoid the need for frontal sinus obliteration. A maximal recess opening and meticulous postoperative care following the EMLP are required to avoid frontal sinus stenosis. Image guidance is a useful adjunct to frontal sinus surgery. © 2009 Springer Berlin Heidelberg.