The Caldwell-Luc operation involves access to the maxillary sinus through which route?
- A Transnasal endoscopic approach through the middle meatus
- B Inferior meatal antrostomy
- C Sublabial canine fossa approach through the anterior wall of the maxillary sinus ✓
- D Transpalatal approach through the hard palate
Correct answer: C. Sublabial canine fossa approach through the anterior wall of the maxillary sinus
Explanation
The Caldwell-Luc operation is an external approach to the maxillary sinus via a sublabial incision in the canine fossa (buccal sulcus), creating a window through the anterior (facial) wall of the maxillary sinus. It was the standard operation before FESS but is now reserved for cases requiring wide access — e.g., retrieval of foreign bodies, tooth root removal, or management of complications. Its disadvantages include risk to the infraorbital nerve and injury to dental roots.
Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.