Maxillary Sinus Assessment: A Computed Tomography Analysis and Classification

TL;DR

This study uses CT scans to classify maxillary sinus variations, helping surgeons better understand and preserve sinus anatomy during procedures.

Contribution

The paper introduces new classifications of maxillary sinus types based on CT scans, previously unreported in the literature.

Findings

Type 1 was the most common maxillary sinus floor type, observed in 53.2% of cases.

Significant gender differences were found in the types of maxillary sinus floor and lateral wall.

Asymmetry was detected in 22.7% of maxillary sinus floors between right and left sides.

Abstract

Introduction
 The preoperative assessment of the computed tomography (CT) characteristics of the maxillary sinus helps to preserve its anatomical and functional integrity during and after surgery.

Objective
 To use CT scanning to identify maxillary sinus variations and types that were not previously published.

Methods
 The present study was carried out on 110 paranasal CT scans (220 sides). Axial images were obtained with multiplanar scans, to visualize details in coronal and sagittal planes for all subjects.

Results
 Among the 110 CTs (220 sides) of the maxillary sinus's floor, there were 53.2% type 1, 29.1% type 2, 10% type 3, and 7.7% type 4, with significant difference between genders. The most common maxillary sinus floor was type 1. The lateral maxillary sinus wall was found to be type 1 in 32.7%, type 2 in 65%, and type 3 in 2.3%, with a significant difference between genders. The most common lateral wall of the maxillary sinus type was type 2. The orbital floor was found to be type 1 in 0.9%, type 2 in 21.3%, type 3 in 50.5%, and type 4 in 27.3%, without significant difference between genders. Asymmetry was detected between the right and left sides for the maxillary sinus floor of in 22.7%, lateral maxillary wall in 16%, and orbital floor (maxillary roof) in 30%.

Conclusion
 This study aims to increase surgeons' awareness of maxillary sinus variations, creating new classifications for usage and communication in the otorhinolaryngology and endoscopic fields. It could also be helpful for training medical residents.

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