The Sinus Center

The Mass. Eye and Ear Sinus Center brings together a uniquely experienced, multi-disciplinary team of experts in diagnosis, treatment and management of sinus problems.

Under the direction of Dr. Eric Holbrook and Dr. Stacey Gray, the Mass. Eye and Ear Sinus Center takes an exhaustive, comprehensive approach to sinus issues. The team includes an impressive panel of experts including ear, nose and throat doctors and other specialists in allergy and immunology, infectious disease, neurosurgery and X-ray/imaging from both Mass. Eye and Ear and Massachusetts General Hospital.

The Mass. Eye and Ear physicians who specialize in sinus disorders are also at the leading edge of research into sinus issues and the associated “special” senses – smell and taste.

The Sinuses

The sinuses are air-filled bony hollows in the skull, lined with a layer of moist tissue known as the mucosa. While scientists debate the exact purpose of the sinuses, several theories have been developed: they serve to absorb energy to protect from injury – the equivalent of “crumple zones” in a modern car; they reduce the overall weight of the head and skull; and – working with the nasal cavity – they warm and humidify incoming air before it reaches the lungs.

• The frontal sinuses are near the eyebrows in the forehead.
• The ethmoid sinuses are between the eyes, behind the bridge of the nose.
• The maxillary sinuses are in the cheek. The upper teeth reach to the floor of the maxillary sinuses, which explains why tooth pain can sometimes accompany sinusitis.
• The sphenoid sinus is behind the ethmoid sinuses and about the center of the head.

Click here to learn more about our Sinus physicians. 

Or call (617) 573-3222 for appointment information.

Page updated 1/21/10