needle puncture and aspiration of sinus contents

overview

for this test, the sinus cavity is punctured with a needle, and a sample of the sinus contents is obtained. a culture and sensitivity test is often done on the sample to identify the bacteria, virus, or fungus causing the infection and to determine which medicine will be most effective in treating it. cells taken from the sample may be studied under a microscope. the sinus cavity is then usually flushed with saline solution.

why it is done

needle puncture and aspiration of the sinus may be needed when a person has repeated sinus infections. more accurate information about which organism is causing the infection may help the doctor and you make better treatment decisions.

results

the organism causing the infection can be identified. other tests can determine which antibiotic will be most effective in treating the infection.

credits

current as of: september 27, 2023

author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

acute sinusitis

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