Retromaxillary Cell: Radiological Analysis and Clinical Significance

Area of Science:

• Otorhinolaryngology
• Radiology
• Anatomy

Background:

• Retromaxillary cell (RMC) is an anatomical variation of the posterior ethmoidal cell.
• RMC is frequently overlooked during functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS).
• Incomplete RMC removal can necessitate revision surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the incidence, types, and radiological features of RMC using computed tomography (CT) scans.
• To evaluate the significance of RMC in the context of paranasal sinus surgery.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of CT scans of 100 paranasal sinus sides.
• Radiological assessment of RMC incidence, laterality, lateral extension, and classification into types I, II, and III.
• Comparison of maxillary sinus disease incidence in RMC and non-RMC sides.

Main Results:

• RMC incidence was 74% (74/100 sides), with 85% bilateral.
• Type II RMC was most common (48.64%), followed by Type III (24.32%) and Type I (27.02%).
• No significant difference in maxillary sinus disease incidence was found between RMC and non-RMC sides (p<0.5).

Conclusions:

• RMC is a common anatomical variation requiring attention during FESS.
• Type III RMC poses a higher risk of residual disease.
• Preoperative radiological evaluation of RMC aids in surgical planning and complete disease clearance.