Characterising Sinonasal Pneumatization in Patients with Nasal Septal Deviation: A CBCT-Based Study

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Radiology
• Anatomy

Background:

• Nasal septal deviation (NSD) is a common condition affecting sinonasal function.
• Paranasal sinus pneumatization represents significant anatomical variation within the sinonasal complex.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlation between nasal septal deviation and paranasal sinus pneumatization.
• To enhance clinical understanding of sinonasal anatomical variations.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective, monocentric study of 60 subjects (30 with NSD, 30 without).
• Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) images were analyzed using the Assessment of Pneumatization of the Paranasal Sinuses (APPS) score.
• Statistical analysis included Chi-square and independent t-tests.

Main Results:

• Significant association found between NSD and increased pneumatization in specific areas like the maxillary floor, middle turbinate concha bullosa, and superior frontal sinus wall.
• Seven out of nine parameters showed statistical significance (p < 0.001).
• Left-sided pneumatization was more prevalent than right-sided; total APPS scores were significantly higher in the NSD group (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

• Nasal septal deviation is significantly related to paranasal sinus pneumatization.
• Septal deviations may influence the extent of pneumatization within the sinonasal complex.