Caldwell luc Antrostomy
Caldwell - luc Antrostomy is a traditional surgical procedure used to access and drain the maxillary sinus through the upper gum above the canine tooth.- br It is performed to treat chronic maxillary sinusitis, fungal sinus infections, benign tumors, cysts, or to remove foreign bodies when endoscopic sinus surgery is not sufficient.- br The procedure creates a window into the maxillary sinus to allow drainage and removal of diseased tissue.- br Although modern endoscopic techniques are preferred today, Caldwell - luc Antrostomy remains valuable in selected complex cases where wide exposure of the sinus is required.- br With appropriate surgical expertise and postoperative care, patients experience significant symptom relief and improved sinus health.
Indications for Caldwell - luc Antrostomy
When this surgery is recommended
Caldwell - luc Antrostomy is indicated in patients with chronic maxillary sinus disease that does not respond to medical therapy or endoscopic sinus surgery.It is also used for fungal sinusitis, maxillary sinus tumors, cysts, dental- related sinus infections, and foreign body removal.ENT specialists carefully evaluate imaging studies to determine if this approach is necessary and beneficial for the patient.
- Chronic Maxillary Sinusitis Persistent sinus infection and blockage despite medications and less invasive procedures
- Fungal Sinusitis Removal of fungal debris and diseased mucosa from the maxillary sinus
- Tumors and Cysts Benign lesions requiring direct surgical access for complete excision
- Dental Causes Oroantral fistula, dental root fragments, or foreign bodies within the sinus
Surgical Technique Explained
Step-by-step overview of the procedure
Caldwell-luc Antrostomy is performed under general anesthesia. An incision is made in the upper gum above the canine tooth to expose the anterior wall of the maxillary sinus. A bony window is created to access the sinus cavity, allowing the surgeon to remove infected tissue, polyps, fungal material, or foreign bodies. A drainage pathway is established into the nasal cavity, and the incision is closed with sutures. The procedure requires precision to avoid dental and nerve complications.
- Anesthesia General anesthesia ensures patient comfort and complete surgical control
- Gum Incision A precise incision in the canine fossa region to access the maxillary sinus
- Sinus Window Creation Removal of a small bony segment to visualize and clean the sinus cavity
- Drainage Establishment Creating a pathway for sinus drainage into the nasal cavity to prevent recurrence
Recovery and Aftercare
Postoperative healing and precautions
After Caldwell-luc Antrostomy, patients may experience facial swelling, mild pain, and numbness in the upper lip or teeth, which usually resolves over time. Antibiotics, pain medications, and nasal care are prescribed. Patients are advised to avoid blowing their nose forcefully and follow strict oral hygiene measures. Follow-up visits ensure proper healing and sinus ventilation.
- Hospital Stay Usually a short hospital stay or day-care procedure depending on case complexity
- Medications Antibiotics, analgesics, and nasal sprays to reduce inflammation and prevent infection
- Oral Care Maintaining oral hygiene to prevent infection at the gum incision site
- Follow-Up Visits Regular ENT check-ups and endoscopic evaluations to ensure sinus patency
Why Choose CureU Healthcare
CureU Healthcare delivers advanced ENT surgical care with a strong focus on precision, safety, and patient comfort. Our ENT surgeons are skilled in both traditional and modern sinus surgery techniques, allowing personalized treatment selection for each patient. We use high-resolution imaging, sterile operation theatres, and evidence-based protocols to minimize complications and optimize recovery. Patients receive comprehensive counseling, tailored postoperative care, and long-term follow-up to ensure durable sinus health and symptom relief.
- Experienced ENT Specialists Surgeons with extensive expertise in sinus and skull base procedures
- Integrated Diagnostic Support Access to advanced CT imaging and endoscopic evaluation for accurate planning
- Personalized Treatment Plans Selection of the most appropriate surgical approach based on disease severity and anatomy
- Holistic Patient Care Preoperative education, postoperative support, and long-term sinus health management
Conclusion
Caldwell-luc Antrostomy remains a valuable surgical option for complex maxillary sinus diseases that require wide surgical access and thorough clearance. While endoscopic sinus surgery is now commonly preferred, this procedure continues to play a critical role in selected refractory or complicated cases. With expert surgical technique, meticulous postoperative care, and structured follow-up, patients can achieve significant symptom relief, improved sinus ventilation, and long-term disease control. Choosing a specialized ENT center with experienced surgeons ensures safe execution, reduced complications, and optimal functional and quality-of-life outcomes
