Rhinology & Sinus Surgery
We are studying ciliogenesis and mucosal wound healing in a rabbit model of sinus surgery. We are currently evaluating the ciliogenic effects of topical retinoic acid (Vitamin A) using scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy. In areas of clinical research, we are studying clinical outcomes of surgery for chronic rhinosinusitis and determinants of post-operative pain in patients undergoing outpatient sinus surgery.
We are evaluating the role of retinoic acid in mucosal wound healing and ciliogenesis. The process of mucosal wound healing in the nose and paranasal sinuses is complex yet poorly understood. Retinoids have been shown to be important co-factors in regulating the differentiation and proliferation of ciliated epithelial cells of the respiratory tract. Using a rabbit model of sinus surgery, we are studying reciliation patterns of regenerated sinus mucosa after surgical demucosalization of the maxillary sinus. When evaluated by scanning electron microscopy, rabbits receiving topical retinoic acid showed greater density and uniformity of regenerated cilia compared to controls. (Figs) We are also evaluating functional aspects of regenerated mucosa through studies of ciliary beat frequency and mucociliary transport times. In addition, we are pursuing quantitative analysis of marker proteins associated with ciliogenesis in this model of mucosal wound healing.
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Legend: 5000x scanning electron micrographs show: a) normal rabbit maxillary sinus mucosa b) regenerated mucosa without topical retinoic acid c) regenerated mucosa with topical retinoic acid. Retinoic acid-treated sinuses showed improved ciliary morphology, density, and orientation compared to controls. |
We are also actively engaged in a variety of clinical research topics. Among these include longitudinal outcomes of endoscopic sinus surgery for chronic rhinosinusitis; efficacy of sublingual immunotherapy for seasonal allergic rhinitis; and histologic correlates of symptomatic improvement after endoscopic sinus surgery.
