Nationwide survey on the use of image-guided functional endoscopic sinus surgery.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate impressions and usage of sinus surgery image-guided surgical (IGS) systems by ENT surgeons in the United States.


METHODS
A survey was mailed to selected practicing ENT physicians, investigating regional information, practice type, IGS usage patterns, perceived benefits and limitations, and usage of the 61795 surgery code.


RESULTS
Seventy-three percent of respondents use IGS. Nonusers respond that it provides no benefit or is too expensive. Eighty percent of respondents replied that IGS may allow for increased safety in certain procedures. Most users attempt reimbursement with the 61795 code.


CONCLUSIONS
IGS usage is increasing but appears to be perceived as expensive and nonbeneficial in certain situations. Most respondents, however, felt that IGS may lead to safer surgery in certain situations, including revision and frontal procedures. Several factors appear to limit routine use including ease of use, technical setup, code reimbursement, and initial purchase costs.


CONCLUSIONS
IGS use appears to be increasing. The most frequent users appear to agree with the previously issued AAO-HNS guidelines regarding appropriate indications. Expanded use may depend on ease of use, reimbursement, and affordability.


METHODS
D-5.
Hepworth
Edward J
EJ
Associates of Otolaryngology, P.C., 950 E. Harvard Avenue, Denver, CO 80210, USA. sinusinstmd@hotmail.com
Bucknor
Matthew
M
Patel
Ankit
A
Vaughan
Winston C
WC
D004724:Endoscopy / Q000379:methods / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006801:Humans; D013517:Otorhinolaryngologic Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D010254:Paranasal Sinus Diseases / Q000601:surgery*; D010256:Paranasal Sinuses / Q000601:surgery*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D025321:Surgery, Computer-Assisted / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014481:United States