The Paranasal Sinuses

SURGICAL PROCEDURES Hollender and Snitman⁶⁸state that radical extirpation of sinal mucosa is indicated in only a small minority of cases. In many instances this radical procedure is based on roentgen findings with or without the use of contrast mediums. Histologic examination of the tissue, however, often reveals a status which, in their opinion, is not incapable of returning to normal if adequate drainage and ventilation are provided. They state that many of the specimens show only moderate edema and thickening, which in many cases are due in part to an allergic factor. (Comment: While the authors rightly point out the fact that in many cases radically extirpated sinal mucosa gives evidence of being capable of rehabilitation, they fail to indicate more clearly how one can determine in advance what type of case requires radical surgical treatment, a contingency which they admit does arise. S. S.) Bompet⁶⁹believes that the