No abstract

\s=b\Unilateral choanal atresia is a congenital problem initially observed by the otolaryngologist as unilateral nasal obstruction. Elective surgical correction can be done using the transnasal, transpalatal, transantral, or transseptal techniques. Two patients underwent this procedure with the transseptal technique. We believe this is a safe, uncomplicated, and reliable technique for the correction of unilateral choanal atresia. (Arch Otolaryngol 1982;108:659-661) Choanal atresia is a congenital obstruction between the nasal cavity and the nasopharyngeal vault. The first recorded case was by Johann Roedere1 in Germany around 1755. Many operative techniques have been devised for the surgical correction of choanal atresia since the first re¬ ported surgical procedure by Emmert2 in 1853, using a curved trocar to punc¬ ture a bony obstruction. Bilateral choanal atresia demands immediate recognition in the newborn and resto¬ ration of the nasal airway as soon as possible. However, unilateral choanal atresia is usually recognized in child¬ hood and requires an elective, safe operative technique with minimal morbidity and predictable long-term results. The relatively widespread use of transseptal surgery of the sphenoid sinus and the pituitary gland through microscopic visualization makes the transseptal repair of unilateral choa¬ nal atresia an attractive operative technique of this procedure; two rep¬ resentative cases are included.

No abstract

Nine cases of rhinocerebral mucormycosis are reviewed. Eight patients had diabetes and 7 had symptoms related to the orbit. Roentgen analysis of focal bone destruction and uniform mucosal thickening will frequently suggest the diagnosis. Mucormycosis should be suspected in the diabetic patient with destruction of the walls of the bony sinuses, especially when multiple sinus involvement suggests an etiology other than neoplasm.

No abstract