OBJECTIVETo introduce the experience of management of inverted papilloma in frontal sinus in hospital.

METHODSSix patients with inverted papilloma in frontal sinus treated between 1999 and 2006 were reported, with special emphasis on the clinical symptoms, surgical technique and prognosis.

RESULTSAmong 6 patients with frontal sinus involvement, there were 5 males and 1 female, aged between 24 and 66 years. All 6 patients were managed with endoscopic resection and additional open approach (glabellar nasal keyhole approach). Follow-up ranged from 2 -8 years. Five patients treated with this protocol remained disease free, and 1 patient died of tumor recurrence and malignant degeneration 16 years after the first surgical management of sinonasal inverted papilloma.

CONCLUSIONSThe appropriate management of inverted papilloma involving the frontal sinus is combined open/endoscopic approach. The tumor extended into the lateral, far superior, and anterior aspects of the frontal sinus is truly at the limits of current endoscopic instrumentation. In order to avoid recurrence, the tumor must be resected completely during the operation. Postoperative radiotherapy is not absolutely necessary.