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Published on: January 17, 2018
Maxillary sinus hypoplasia
P K D Kapoor1, B Nirmal Kumar, S D Watson
1Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Royal Albert Edward Infirmary, Wigan, UK. prvkapoor@hotmail.com
The Journal of Laryngology and Otology
|February 6, 2002
Summary
Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) requires pre-operative imaging. This study highlights maxillary sinus hypoplasia (MSH) and uncinate process variations, crucial for surgical planning and avoiding complications.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is a common procedure worldwide.
- Pre-operative computed tomography (CT) scans are standard for FESS, though their necessity is debated for limited procedures.
- Existing literature inadequately details maxillary sinus hypoplasia (MSH) and uncinate process deformities.
Observation:
- This article presents two cases of maxillary sinus hypoplasia (MSH): one unilateral and one bilateral.
- These cases illustrate specific anatomical variations encountered in sinus surgery patients.
Findings:
- Maxillary sinus hypoplasia (MSH) and associated uncinate process deformities represent significant anatomical variants.
- These variations may not be adequately addressed in standard pre-operative imaging interpretation guides.
Implications:
- Awareness of MSH and related uncinate process anomalies is critical for surgeons performing FESS.
- Recognizing these anatomical variants can help prevent intraoperative complications, particularly orbital injuries.
- Pre-operative CT interpretation must emphasize the identification of such anatomical variations for safer FESS.

