Sphenoid Sinus Fungal Ball and Reestablishing Sinus Function

Objectives: The aim was to assess the developmental attributes of sphenoid sinuses affected by fungal balls and describe a surgical approach which reestablishes gravity-dependent drainage to compensate for any mucociliary dysfunction.

Methods: A within-patient case-control analysis was performed on sphenoid sinus dimensions from patients with sphenoid sinus fungal ball (SSFB). Radiological dimensions were assessed to determine the dominant or larger sinus by volume and width. Pneumatization in the sagittal and lateral extent was assessed. The influence of sinus size and pneumatization variants within a patient was analyzed. Patency and the presence of mucostasis from radical reshaping of the sinus cavity were documented at least 3 months after surgery. Complications (bleeding, cerebrospinal fluid leak, and cranial nerve palsy) were recorded.

Results: Twenty-three patients (59 ± 19 years, 86% female, 46 sphenoid sinuses) were assessed. Fungal ball was more common in the smaller (non-dominant) sinus, by width (78% vs. 22%, p < 0.01) and by proportion of total sphenoid volume (0.39 ± 0.16 vs. 0.61 ± 0.16, p < 0.01). Pneumatization variants did not influence the development of SSFB within a patient. All patients had patency and the absence of mucostasis or persistent inflammation at last follow-up. No complications were reported.

Conclusion: The smaller or nondominant sphenoid sinus is more affected by SSFB. Surgical reshaping of the sphenoid to prevent mucostasis is favorable in managing the smaller affected sinus cavity.

Level of evidence: 4 Laryngoscope, 2024.