Evaluation of structured operation planning of functional endoscopic sinus surgeries using computed tomography scans

Introduction Preoperative planning of sinus surgery using computed tomography (CT) scans is an essential part of the procedure. In many cases there are no uniform documentation and planning structures and the quality of reports and completeness are subject to strong fluctuations. The aim of the study was to compare the quality of reports and user satisfaction of conventional operation planning (COP) using sinus CTs and structured operation planning (SOP) during a 4 days sinus surgery course.

Material and Methods: n = 15 participants (6 female, 9 male) were asked to create a free text report of a sinus CT with typical pathologies for preoperative planning. The participants then assessed the same CT using a structured reporting template. COP and SOP were independently evaluated by two experienced ENT specialists with regard to time expenditure, diagnostic quality and readability. User satisfaction was evaluated using visual analogue scales.

Results The time required for COP was significantly lower than for SOP (183 s vs. 297 s, p < 0.01). However, the SOPs showed a better readability as well as a significantly higher completeness of findings (61.3 % vs. 22.7 %, p < 0.01), whereby relevant pathologies and anatomical variations were described in more detail. User satisfaction ratings were significantly higher for SOP (VAS 8.3 vs. 6.8, p < 0.01) and their use in clinical routine was evaluated as very useful.

Conclusion SOP using sinus CTs requires more time, but provides more detailed and readable findings in comparison to COP. Therefore, SOP could be a valuable tool for operation planning especially in the training of younger physicians.

Poster-PDF A-1726.PDF

Publication History

Article published online:
10 June 2020