Sphenochoanal polyp: endoscopic surgery

Sphenochoanal polyp is a rare entity originating from sphenoid sinus. It ma y be confused with antrochoanal polyp on anterior rhinoscopy because of its similar appearance. Computerized tomography and nasal endoscopy have contr ibuted to an increase of accuracy in the diagnosis of these masses. Simple polypectomy that leaves some part of the polyp inside the sphenoid sinus ca rries a high risk of recurrence. Destructive external approaches to gain ac cess to the sphenoid sinus are also not advisable in children for a benign disease. We present two crises of sphenochoanal polyps in two children that were operated by endonasal endoscopic approach. They were free of symptoms after surgery. No complications and recurrences were observed at 28 and 18 months of follow-up periods respectively. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Irelan d Ltd. All rights reserved.