An in vitro parametric study of maxillary sinus ventilation using transparent 3D-printed sinonasal models

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Respiratory Physiology
• Anatomy

Background:

• Maxillary sinus ventilation is crucial for preventing infections.
• Anatomical factors (ostial diameter, length, sinus volume) and breathing patterns are known to influence ventilation, but their interactions are not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate how anatomical parameters of the maxillary sinus interact with breathing patterns to affect sinus ventilation.
• To quantify the impact of ostial diameter, length, sinus volume, and breathing modes (breath-hold, quiet breathing, panting) on sinus ventilation dynamics.

Main Methods:

• 3D printing of 15 transparent sinonasal casts with varying anatomical parameters.
• Visualization and quantification of sinus ventilation using e-vapor under three breathing conditions.
• Measurement of total vapor escape-settling time and time to reach a reference line.
• Statistical analysis using full factorial ANOVA to assess main effects and interactions.

Main Results:

• Breathing mode was the primary determinant of total clearance, with panting reducing ventilation time by over two-thirds compared to quiet breathing and breath-hold.
• Longer ostial canals and larger sinus volumes increased secretion retention time.
• Ostial length was the most significant factor for early vapor escape, followed by breathing mode, ostial diameter, and sinus volume.

Conclusions:

• Maxillary sinus ventilation is governed by a combination of anatomical and physiological factors.
• Breathing mode plays a dominant role in overall sinus ventilation, while ostial canal length is critical for initial clearance.
• Findings inform surgical planning for ostial patency and breathing strategies for improved sinus aeration.