[Certain morphometric characteristics of the normal maxillary sinus]

Area of Science:

• Otorhinolaryngology
• Medical Imaging
• Surgical Anatomy

Background:

• Maxillary sinus pathology frequently necessitates surgical intervention.
• Understanding anatomical variations is crucial for effective sinus surgery.
• Previous studies have not fully detailed age-specific maxillary sinus wall characteristics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate age-related and individual anatomical features of maxillary sinus walls.
• To establish principles for maxillary sinus surgery based on anthropometric data.
• To evaluate surgical access routes through anatomical variations.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of cone-beam CT scans from 586 patients aged 5 to 60 years.
• Categorization of patients into six age-based groups.
• Measurement of anthropometric indicators of the maxillary sinus walls.

Main Results:

• Maxillary sinus anterolateral wall thickness >1.5 mm was common in patients under 12.
• Surgical access via the inferior nasal passage was limited in patients under 12 due to medial wall thickness >1 mm.
• An obtuse angle (>100°) and lateral wall depth (>5 mm) in the inferior meatus facilitated surgical access.

Conclusions:

• Age-specific anatomical features of the maxillary sinus influence surgical approach.
• Specific anatomical landmarks in the inferior nasal meatus are key for successful transnasal maxillary sinus surgery.
• Anthropometric analysis provides a basis for developing safer and more effective sinus surgical techniques.