[Computer-assisted anatomical evaluation of the nasal sinuses in 1-2 years old children]

To analyze the anatomical and developmental characteristics of nasal sinuses in 1-2 years old children; and provide potential evidence for the diagnosis and treatment of sinusitis in 1-2 years old children.

Coronal CT scans of 60 cases (1-2 years old children) were studied with the imaging station. Reference datas were identified on these images using imaging station. The gasification conditions of the sinuses were identified and measured.

100% of the frontal sinuses were not developed, while 100% of the maxillary sinuses were developed. The mean of the transverse and vertical diameters for the left side of the maxillary sinuse was (13.32 ± 2.88) mm and (13.55 ± 2.43) mm, respectively. While those for the right side were (13.63 ± 2.75) mm and (13.59 ± 2.13) mm, respectively. The anterior and posterior ethmoid sinuses were 100% developed. The mean transverse and vertical diameters for the left side of the anterior ethmoid sinus were (3.94 ± 0.86) mm and (11.92 ± 1.67) mm, respectively. While those mean for its right side were (3.88 ± 0.88) mm and (12.18 ± 1.86) mm, respectively. The mean transverse and vertical diameters for the left side of the posterior ethmoid sinus were (6.02 ± 1.07) mm and (10.51 ± 1.43) mm, respectively. While those for the right side were (5.91 ± 1.20) mm and (10.51 ± 1.55) mm, respectively. 88.3% (106 sides) of the sphenoid sinuses were developed, while 11.7% (14 sides) were not developed. The mean transverse and vertical diameters for the left side of the sphenoid sinus were (5.18 ± 2.15) mm and (5.78 ± 1.86) mm, respectively. While those for the right side were (4.91 ± 2.24) mm and (5.89 ± 2.03) mm, respectively.

The nasal sinuses in 1-2 years old children have been already developed. The development of the maxillary and ethmoid sinuses was clear and definite. The pneumatization of the sphenoid sinus was defined in many babies; however, the pneumatization of the frontal sinus was not defined in all babies. Acute rhinosinusitis in 1-2 years old children is not uncommon. Therefore, definite diagnosis and positive treatment of such cases are essential for avoidance of serious complications.