Review of Different Methods of Uncinectomy in Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

Uncinectomy is a safe procedure in experienced hands whatever technique is used. It is usually the first step in endoscopic sinus surgery and the first surgical maneuver the new rhinologist has to learn. The most familiar two methods of doing uncinectomy are the classic method, introduced by Stammberger in 1986, and Wormalds swing-door technique in 1998. The swing-door technique appears to be associated with a slightly higher risk of injury to the lacrimal duct. Simultaneously, failure to identify maxillary ostium and orbital penetration are both more common in the classic method. This study aims to review the different methods of doing uncinectomy during endoscopic sinus surgery and compare the most standard techniques regarding their efficiency and safety.