A study on 3D imaging of maxillary sinus anatomical variations using CBCT.

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Radiology

Background:

• The maxillary sinus, the largest paranasal sinus, exhibits significant anatomical variability.
• These variations can complicate oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures, particularly those involving the posterior maxilla.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate anatomical variations of the maxillary sinus using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).
• To assess sinus dimensions, septal patterns, floor morphology, and proximity to posterior teeth.
• To highlight the importance of CBCT for precise surgical planning in implantology.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of CBCT scans from 450 patients (aged 18-75 years).
• Evaluation of maxillary sinus volume, symmetry, septal presence, and root proximity.
• Measurement of sinus floor-to-alveolar crest distances at specific posterior teeth locations.

Main Results:

• Mean maxillary sinus volume was 14.7 ± 4.2 cm³.
• Bilateral asymmetry was observed in 38.4% of cases.
• Sinus septa were present in 62.7%, and root protrusions into the sinus occurred in 41.3% of patients.
• Sinus floor-to-alveolar crest distance varied from 1.2 mm (first molar) to 3.8 mm (second premolar).

Conclusions:

• Significant anatomical variations exist within the maxillary sinus.
• CBCT imaging is essential for accurate assessment of these variations.
• Precise surgical planning, especially for posterior maxillary implant placement, is facilitated by understanding these anatomical nuances.