Surgical ciliated cyst of the maxilla: Report of two cases with striking radiological features and unusual antecedent surgical histories

Abstract

Surgical ciliated cysts of the maxilla arise from respiratory epithelium that lodges in the maxilla after radical maxillary or sinus surgery. They are common in Asia, where they are known as postoperative maxillary cysts, but are rare in Western countries. We present here two cases with striking radiologic features which distinguished them from other maxillary sinus lesions; non-radical antecedent surgery of extractions, possibly associated with maxillary trauma, and surgical and conservative endodontic treatment; and no evidence of recurrence after 14 and 31 years.

Keywords

• Maxillary sinus lesions
• Non-odontogenic cysts
• Postoperative maxillary cyst
• Surgical ciliated cyst of the maxilla