The after-effects of the radical maxillary sinus operation may be serious. Anesthesia of the cheek may occur if the incision is extended too far toward the middle line, injuring the anterior dental nerve supply. Devitalization of the teeth may occur owing to nerve injury. Infra-orbital neuralgia results if the periosteum is elevated too high and the infra-orbital nerve injured. Aspiration pneumonia has been known to occur following general anesthesia. Therefore, I desire to make a plea for more conservative measures.
If the after-effects of radical procedure can be eliminated by a more conservative method of treatment and the removal of pathologic tissue be obtained with less destruction of tissue, this method should be given consideration.
The surgical treatment for chronic maxillary sinusitis may be considered radical or conservative, depending on the pathologic process found. Each case presents its characteristics, and treatment should be given to meet the requirements of