Lateral frontoethmoidal cell obstructing frontal sinus drainage pathway - report of six cases

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Anatomy
• Radiology

Background:

• Existing classifications of frontoethmoidal cells do not fully characterize lateral cells.
• The European Anatomical Position Paper acknowledges lateral frontoethmoidal cells but lacks detailed characterization.
• Other classifications omit lateral frontoethmoidal cells.

Observation:

• Computed tomography (CT) scans with multiplanar reconstruction were analyzed.
• Lateral frontoethmoidal cells were identified in 6 rhinosinusitis patients.
• These cells extend between the frontal beak and skull base, medially displacing the frontal sinus drainage pathway.

Findings:

• Lateral frontoethmoidal cells could not be classified under existing anterior, posterior, or medial categories.
• Four of the identified patients had prior sinonasal surgeries.
• This anatomical variation is often underestimated and overlooked.

Implications:

• Lateral frontoethmoidal cells are a significant anatomical variation in rhinosinusitis.
• Failure to identify these cells may lead to persistent inflammatory disease.
• Preoperative identification is crucial for effective management of sinonasal conditions.