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Variations of sphenoid and related structures
A Sirikci1, Y A Bayazit, M Bayram
1Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Gaziantep University, Koljtepe, Turkey.
European Radiology
|May 24, 2000
Summary
This study analyzed 92 sphenoid sinus CT scans, revealing frequent anatomical variations like internal carotid artery and optic nerve protrusions. Understanding these variations is crucial for safe surgical dissection.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Neurosurgery
- Anatomy
Background:
- The sphenoid sinus's proximity to critical neurovascular structures necessitates detailed anatomical understanding.
- Anatomical variations in the sphenoid sinus region can pose significant surgical risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To precisely define the relationship between the sphenoid sinus, internal carotid artery (ICA), and optic nerve (ON).
- To assess the incidence of anatomical variations of these structures and related bony elements.
Main Methods:
- Review of 92 paranasal sinus tomographic scans (coronal and axial, 2.5-mm thickness).
- Assessment of ICA and ON protrusion into the sphenoid sinus.
- Evaluation of bone dehiscence, anterior clinoid process (ACP) and pterygoid recess (PR) pneumatization, and sphenoid sinus septum variations.
Main Results:
- ICA protrusion observed in 26.1% of patients; ON protrusion in 31.5%.
- PR pneumatization found in 29.3% of patients.
- A significant relationship was found between ACP pneumatization and ON protrusion (p=0.007).
Conclusions:
- Preoperative identification of sphenoid sinus anatomical variations by radiologists is vital for surgical planning.
- Extensive pneumatization can distort anatomy, emphasizing the need for detailed CT evaluation before sphenoid sinus surgery.