Firearm projectile removal from the maxillary sinus

PAULO MATHEUS HONDA TAVARES, SHIRLAN MADY MARQUES, GUSTAVO CAVALCANTI DE ALBUQUERQUE, VALBER BARBOSA MARTINS, MARCELO VINICIUS OLIVEIRA, SAULO LÔBO CHATEAUBRIAND DO NASCIMENTO, RAFAEL SARAIVA TORRES

Gunshot injuries cause serious problems to the max- illofacial complex, especially when extensive injuries, comminuted fractures and retention of projectiles are involved. The maxillary sinus is the largest of the pa- ranasal sinuses and the most affected by injuries. Foreign bodies inside are unusual occurrences, usually caused by penetrating trauma or iatrogenic conditions. Caldwell-Luc approach to the maxillary sinus is largely suggested and used, because it is a simple technique and provides good visualization and good inspection. Patient injured by firearm, with entrance hole in right hemiface near the wing of the nose, with no exit hole; presented in the computed tomography a retained bullet in the left maxillary sinus. Caldwell-Luc approach was used for exploration of the maxillary sinus, projectile removal and copious washing of the sinus. Surgical removal was satisfactory and conservative. The patient progressed with-out complications caused by the injury or the treatment performed. It is essential that the choice by the removal or not of the foreign body, using a surgical or conservative approach, take into account clinical, surgical and anatomical criteria, to bring resolution to the case with patient safety.

Keywords: Maxillary sinus. Wounds. Gunshot. Foreign bodies. Surgery, oral.

How to cite: Tavares PMH, Marques SM, Albuquerque GC, Martins VB, Oliveira MV, Nascimento SLC, Torres RS. Firearm projectile removal from the maxillary sinus. J Braz Coll Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2021 May-Aug;7(2):70-5.

Tuesday, May 14, 2024 13:59