Structure and features of damage to the nose and paranasal sinuses in modern armed conflict: an experience of the Otorhinolaryngology clinic of the S.M. Kirov Military Medical Academy

Objective. To analyze the structure and features of damage to the nose and paranasal sinuses in the conditions of modern armed conflict. Patients and methods. The study included 35 victims (participants of the modern armed conflict) with damage to the nose and paranasal sinuses, who received specialized medical care in the Otorhinolaryngology clinic of the S.M. Kirov Military Medical Academy in the period from 2022 to 2023. All patients underwent a CT scan of the head, including in 3D mode. Isolated, multiple and combined injuries of the nose and paranasal sinuses were considered. Results. It has been established that most (88.5%) of the damage to the paranasal sinuses in modern armed conflict refers to mine-explosive, gunshot, shrapnel wounds with the presence of foreign bodies, most often metal fragments. Isolated wounds of the paranasal sinuses amounted to 22.8%. Multiple injuries with damage to adjacent anatomical areas and combined injuries accounted for 28.5 and 48.7%, respectively. The maxillary sinuses were most often affected as a result of wounds of the paranasal sinuses — 62,.8%. Conclusion. Treatment of damage to the paranasal sinuses in modern armed conflict requires a multidisciplinary approach. Endoscopic accesses in the treatment of wounds of the paranasal sinuses have shown good results and are recommended for use in clinical practice when removing foreign bodies and for prevention of intracranial and intraorbital complications.