Sinus Precautions — NDEB AFK MCQ

Correct answer: D — To prevent air pressure changes that could disrupt the blood clot or create an oroantral communication — instructions include: do not blow nose, sneeze with mouth open, do not use straws, do not smoke

Sinus precautions after maxillary posterior tooth extraction aim to prevent disruption of the blood clot in the socket (which may communicate with the maxillary sinus floor) and prevent conversion of a small OAC into a persistent oroantral fistula. Instructions include: avoid forceful nose blowing, sneeze with mouth open (to equalise pressure), avoid sucking through straws, avoid smoking, avoid playing wind instruments, avoid air travel for 1-2 weeks, take prescribed nasal decongestant, and report any fluid passage between mouth and nose.

Reference: Hupp – Contemporary Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 7th ed., 2019