Sexual Dimorphism of Maxillary Sinus: A Morphometric Analysis using Cone Beam Computed Tomography

Area of Science:

• Forensic Anthropology
• Radiology
• Anatomy

Background:

• Sex determination is crucial in forensic anthropology, often challenging due to incomplete skeletal remains.
• The maxillary sinus presents an intact anatomical structure suitable for analysis.
• Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) offers high-resolution imaging for complex anatomical structures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of maxillary sinus (MS) dimensions and volume in gender determination using CBCT.
• To establish a correlation between MS morphology and sex in a forensic context.

Main Methods:

• CBCT scans of the maxillary sinuses (bilateral) were obtained from 100 individuals (50 males, 50 females).
• Measurements included width, length, height, area, perimeter, and volume.
• Statistical analysis, including unpaired t-tests and discriminative analysis, was performed.

Main Results:

• Most MS dimensions (length, height, area, volume, perimeter) showed no significant sex-based differences.
• A statistically significant difference was observed in left-side MS width, being higher in females (p=0.041).
• Discriminative analysis yielded an overall accuracy of 71% for gender identification, with higher accuracy for females (74%) than males (68%).

Conclusions:

• Maxillary sinus width, particularly on the left side, can serve as an ancillary tool in forensic anthropology for sex determination.
• CBCT imaging of the maxillary sinus provides valuable data for forensic identification when other skeletal evidence is limited.