Closed reduction of fractured anterior wall of the frontal sinus using threaded K-wires

Abstract

Classic approach of the anterior wall of frontal sinus fracture involves bicoronal or direct forehead incisions. However, these methods have some disadvantages, for example, paresthesia, scarring, and even alopecia. The purpose of this study was to introduce the simple and effective method of reduction of the anterior wall of frontal sinus fracture with threaded K-wires. Thirteen patients with fracture of the anterior wall of the frontal sinus underwent our method from December 2005 to September 2011. The distance of threaded K-wires was measured by facial computed tomography, and those marks were made directly on the threaded K-wires with an aseptic pencil. Closed reduction with these K-wires was tried carefully until a tolerable level was attained with digital palpation. Facial computed tomography was performed the following day for comparison. On postoperative day 7, following disappearance of swelling, the patient and the doctor mutually evaluated the outcome; both were satisfied with the results. The postoperative course was uneventful, without any complications. Unlike other methods, this method can guarantee a short operating time, effective reduction, and inconspicuous scar.