The usefulness of computed tomography scans in cystic fibrosis patients with chronic sinusitis.

BACKGROUND: This study was performed to evaluate the usefulness of computed tomography (CT) scans of the sinuses in children with cystic fibrosis (CF) as an outcomes measurement for medical and surgically treated chronic rhinosinusitis.

METHODS: Patients with CF who had sinus scans performed at the study institution from January 1999 to September 2003 were identified. The scans and any available prior scans were scored according to the Lund-MacKay system. A retrospective chart review determined if hospitalization with i.v. antibiotic therapy or operative intervention had occurred between scans and if the scans showed improvement secondary to the intervention.

RESULTS: One hundred thirty-four patients were identified who met inclusion criteria. A total of 290 scans were reviewed, with the average number of CT scans per patient of 2.24 (range, 1-10). The average Lund-MacKay score for scans closest in time to the first sinus surgery was 14.5. (range, 7-24), and for the first postoperative scans, the score was 14.7 (8-24). There was no significant difference between the preoperative and postoperative Lund-MacKay score after initial surgery (p = 0.99) or in subsequent scans despite medical or surgical interventions (p = 0.90).

CONCLUSION: CT scanning of the sinuses does not appear to be useful in determining outcomes of intervention in CF patients.