Odontogenic Maxillary Sinusitis - The Interface and Collaboration between Rhinologists and Dentists

Odontogenic maxillary sinusitis (OMS) is an inflammatory condition affecting the paranasal sinuses and is commonly encountered by both otorhinolaryngologists and dentists. However, there is ongoing debate regarding the best sequence of management. Clinicians are faced with the dilemma of first addressing the affected tooth or the affected sinus. This presentation will provide a review of the current literature on the aetiology, presentation, diagnosis, and management of OMS. Furthermore, we discuss our experience with the use of a modified medial maxillectomy approach to the management of OMS from our experience with 556 modified medial maxillectomy cases, of which 17 were for odontogenic pathology. Overall, the causative pathology of the patient’s OMS, their symptoms, and the risk of surgery should drive decision making with regards to sequence of management.