Evaluation of Olfactory Fossa Depth Using Computed Tomography

Area of Science:

• Anatomy
• Radiology
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• The olfactory fossa, a critical structure in the anterior cranial cavity, is formed by the cribriform plate of the ethmoid bone.
• Deep olfactory fossae increase susceptibility to injury during functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS).
• Understanding ethmoid roof anatomy and its variations is vital for preventing surgical complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the depth of the olfactory fossa.
• To analyze variations in olfactory fossa depth based on Keros classification.
• To determine the association between olfactory fossa depth, side, and gender.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 280 patients.
• Olfactory fossa depth was measured using Computed Tomography (CT) scans.
• Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-test, ANOVA, and Chi-square test, grouped by Keros classification.

Main Results:

• The mean olfactory fossa depth was 5.10 ± 1.58 mm on the right and 5.28 ± 1.62 mm on the left.
• Keros type II was the most prevalent classification (74.60% left, 69.30% right).
• Significant differences in depth were observed between left and right fossae, but not between genders. No significant association was found between Keros type, sides, or gender.

Conclusions:

• Olfactory fossa depth exhibits common variations.
• Preoperative assessment of the ethmoid roof and Keros type is essential.
• This assessment aids surgeons in minimizing critical complications during FESS.