Removal of wood fragments from the maxillary sinus: a case report

Abstract

A foreign body in the maxillary sinus is an uncommon finding that could arise from traumatic conditions or iatrogenic dental treatments. Among non-odontogenic foreign bodies, it is possible to find glass, stones, wood and projectiles. Ultrasonography is a very sensitive feature in the perception of less dense objects, the most effective when compared with radiography and computed tomography, as the test of choice to assist in surgical removal of foreign body. Recurrent infections, neuralgia, chemical poisoning, antrolith formation and cutaneous fistulae may result from the presence of foreign bodies in the maxillary sinus. To avoid complications the foreign body must be removed either by the classical surgical Caldwell-Luc technique or through the endoscopic procedures. This is a report of a clinical case in which wood fragments traumatically introduced were removed from the maxillary sinus by the classical surgical Caldwell-Luc technique.