Sinocutaneous Fistula Secondary to Chronic Frontal Rhinosinusitis: Case Series and Literature Review

Abstract

Objectives:

The purpose of this study was to describe the clinical features of a series of patients in whom sinocutaneous fistula developed in the setting of chronic frontal sinusitis.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective case review of patients with sinocutaneous fistula. Clinical records, imaging, and operative reports were carefully examined. A complete literature review for relevant studies was performed to examine similar cases and possible pathophysiology.

Results:

Three patients with sinocutaneous fistula secondary to frontal sinusitis were identified. All patients underwent successful endoscopic sinus surgery with computer-assisted stereotactic localization and closure of the fistula.

Conclusions:

Development of sinocutaneous fistula secondary to frontal sinusitis is rare, but still occurs in the modern antibiotic era. Definitive management of this disease process requires 1) a frontal sinusotomy ensuring patency of the outflow tract and 2) fistula excision and multilayer closure.