# Transnasal endoscopic removal of an ectopic maxillary sinus tooth associated with a dentigerous cyst: A case report and a brief review

**Authors:** Shengtao Wu, Taoyuan Ran, Hong Wei, Chao Tian, Xudong Tian

PMC · DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2025.111049 · International Journal of Surgery Case Reports · 2025-02-13

## TL;DR

A rare case of an ectopic tooth in the maxillary sinus was successfully removed using a minimally invasive endoscopic technique.

## Contribution

Demonstrates the effectiveness of transnasal endoscopic surgery for treating ectopic teeth with dentigerous cysts.

## Key findings

- Transnasal endoscopic removal achieved complete lesion removal with no malignant features.
- Endoscopic surgery reduced complications and improved outcomes compared to traditional methods.
- CT imaging was crucial for surgical planning and successful execution.

## Abstract

Ectopic teeth in the maxillary sinus, particularly when associated with dentigerous cysts, represent a rare clinical entity that can lead to significant complications. Early detection and appropriate surgical management are crucial for optimal outcomes, with minimally invasive approaches gaining increasing prominence in contemporary practice.

An 18-year-old male presented with right-sided facial swelling and persistent discomfort. Advanced imaging revealed an ectopic maxillary third molar within the right maxillary sinus associated with a dentigerous cyst. The lesion was successfully treated using a transnasal endoscopic approach, achieving complete removal of both the ectopic tooth and cyst. Histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of a dentigerous cyst without malignant features. The patient experienced complete symptom resolution during the three-month follow-up period.

This case highlights the effectiveness of minimally invasive endoscopic techniques in managing sinonasal ectopic teeth. The use of CT provided crucial preoperative information for surgical planning, while the endoscopic approach offered superior visualization and reduced morbidity compared to traditional methods. The successful outcome validates this approach as a viable alternative to conventional surgery.

Transnasal endoscopic removal represents a safe and effective treatment modality for ectopic maxillary sinus teeth with associated dentigerous cysts. This approach, combined with advanced imaging techniques, enables precise surgical execution while minimizing postoperative complications.

•Case of ectopic tooth in maxillary sinus treated with minimally invasive transnasal endoscopic approach.•A brief literature review on the etiology, clinical features, imaging, and surgical management of ectopic teeth.•Endoscopic surgery showed clear advantages over traditional methods, with reduced complications and improved outcomes.

Case of ectopic tooth in maxillary sinus treated with minimally invasive transnasal endoscopic approach.

A brief literature review on the etiology, clinical features, imaging, and surgical management of ectopic teeth.

Endoscopic surgery showed clear advantages over traditional methods, with reduced complications and improved outcomes.

## Linked entities

- **Diseases:** dentigerous cyst (MONDO:0020815)

## Full-text entities

- **Diseases:** ectopic tooth (MESH:D014079), ectopic maxillary sinus teeth (MESH:D008444), cyst (MESH:D003560), dentigerous cyst (MESH:D003803), facial swelling (MESH:D004487), Ectopic teeth in (MESH:D018677), PRESENTATION (MESH:D001946)
- **Species:** Homo sapiens (human, species) [taxon 9606]

## Full text

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## Figures

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## References

30 references — full list in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC11880591/full.md

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC11880591