The Caldwell-Luc approach to maxillary cyst enucleation

Abstract

In the era of endoscopic surgery of the maxillary sinuses, an external approach to them may be ideal in certain situations. The Caldwell-Luc procedure uses an external approach for the surgical treatment of severely diseased maxillary sinus. It is reserved for selected patients with extensive maxillary disease, especially those with massive polyposis or fungal disease, chronic maxillary sinusitis, or massive cysts of various etiologies. Failure to completely clean the maxillary mucosa can lead to early postoperative recurrence of the disease. The anterior and inferior regions of the maxillary antrum are particularly difficult to access endoscopically.