Abstract
Objective: To investigate and understand the difference between clinical and pathophysiologic recovery according to recovery periods in the rabbit sinusitis model.
Method: A synthetic sponge was inserted into the right-side nasal cavities of 15 rabbits. After 2 weeks, the maxillary sinu-sitis was induced and confirmed by computed tomography (CT) scan. The opacification in CT scan was graded. Then the mucosa was harvested from the maxillary sinus. Ciliary beat frequency (CBF) was measured for evaluating mucosal function. Light microscopic, scanning and transmission electron microscopic (SEM & TEM) examinations were performed. Histopathologic findings in microscopic examinations were scored in a semi-quantitative measure. Each examination was performed at the time of reopening of maxillary sinus ostium, 4 weeks and 8 weeks after reopening of maxillary sinus ostium.
Results: The sinus opacification in CT scan and ciliary regeneration in SEM showed significant improvement 8 weeks after reopening of maxillary sinus ostium. But CBF, tissue inflammation score and ciliary wave disorder were not improved significantly 8 weeks after reopening of maxillary sinus ostium.
Conclusion: Clinical, functional, and histopathologic recoveries from sinusitis require different periods of time. Incomplete functional and histopathologic recoveries can be the cause of relapse or recurrence of sinusitis. Therefore, close follow-up will be necessary after clinical resolution of sinusitis.