Extensive complex odontoma in the maxillary sinus pushing 3rd molar near the orbital floor causing transient diplopia and chronic sinusitis: a rare presentation and surgical management

Odontoma is a mixed odontogenic hamartoma involving both epithelial and mesenchymal tissues. If left untreated, it can lead to complications in certain conditions. Here is a rare presentation of an extensive complex odontoma in maxillary sinus pushing third molar near the orbital floor causing transient diplopia in upward gaze occasionally and chronic sinusitis. Although odontomata are not uncommon and are familiar to practitioners, but some aggressive cases may cause problematic sequelae. Even postoperative complications may result if oral surgeons are not aware of the potential pitfalls associated with the surgical removal of large maxillary antrum odontomata. This article reports a rare presentation which can be considered unique because when obstruction of sinus drainage is evident, serious complications such as orbital infections, epidural and subdural empyema, meningitis, cerebritis, cavernous sinus thrombosis, brain abscess and death can occur. It also addresses points and pitfalls concerning surgery to remove odontoma.