Imaging of sinonasal anatomy and inflammatory disorders

The widespread acceptance of functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) underscores the importance of understanding the relevant anatomy of the paranasal sinuses as a means of providing a roadmap to the otorhinolaryngologist prior to surgery. The radiologist can address important imaging issues for the ear, nose, and throat (ENT) surgeon before FESS is undertaken. There are two main questions that the radiologist should address: 1. Are there anatomic features on the computed tomography (CT) scan that predispose the patient to impaired mucociliary clearance? 2. Are there anatomic features that pose a surgical hazard?