Maxillary Sinusitis

Abstract

Maxillary sinusitis is a debilitating condition for patients due to the proximity of this anatomical structure to the dentition, oropharynx and orbital cavity and thus of paramount consideration for the oral and maxillofacial clinician. The etiopathology, when not due to oral antral communication and thus often secondary to an upper respiratory tract infection, can be multifactorial. It is the result of a detailed clinical assessment with appropriate investigations that an accurate diagnosis attained. Management of symptoms is the first course of action and provides the greatest perceived relief for the patient. Surgical management has multidisciplinary overlap and each specialism should work in harmony in their respective fortes for an optimum outcome. This chapter provides a detailed overview of the pathophysiology, clinical presentation and management of patients presenting with suspected maxillary sinusitis in the absence of oral antral communication.