Visualization of the maxillary sinus and styloid processes using rotational panoramic radiography

A technique is presented which improves visualization of the medio-lateral aspect of the maxillary sinus using rotational panoramic radiography. The method was also assessed for accuracy of styloid process projection. Using a specially constructed Perspex stand, dried skulls of varying ages were radiographed in various reproducible positions using a panoramic unit. The best medio-lateral view of the maxillary sinus of adult skulls was achieved by: (1) raising the height of the film approximately 20 mm in relation to the subject; (2) moving the subject 15-20 mm forward of the standard position for a panoramic view for adults (10-15 mm for children); and (3) tilting the occlusal plane downwards approximately 8-10 degrees. The styloid processes were readily seen using this maxillary sinus view. The resultant image of the process was elongated by a factor of 1.24 +/- 0.02 by this technique.