Impact of Maxillary Sinus Septa on Sinus Volume: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Radiographic Study

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Radiology
• Anatomy

Background:

• Maxillary sinus anatomy, including volume and septa, is critical for dental implantology and sinus lift procedures.
• Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) provides detailed 3D imaging for evaluating these structures.
• Understanding the prevalence and characteristics of maxillary sinus septa is essential for surgical predictability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate maxillary sinus volume and its relationship with the presence, location, and characteristics of maxillary sinus septa.
• To analyze the influence of patient demographics and dentition status on sinus volume and septa prevalence.
• To provide anatomical data for optimizing dental implant and sinus augmentation procedures.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 253 CBCT scans (506 maxillary sinuses) from adult patients.
• Measurement of maxillary sinus volume and assessment of septa presence, location, orientation, and completeness using Planmeca Romexis software.
• Statistical analysis to determine relationships between sinus volume, septa characteristics, patient demographics, and dentition status.

Main Results:

• Septa were present in 48.2% of sinuses, with no significant difference between unilateral and bilateral occurrences.
• Males exhibited significantly larger maxillary sinus volumes compared to females (14.68 cm³ vs. 12.10 cm³).
• Sinus volume was significantly higher in the presence of septa, which were most commonly located in the middle region and oriented coronally. Dentition status did not significantly affect sinus volume or septa prevalence.

Conclusions:

• Maxillary sinus septa are prevalent and associated with increased sinus volume, necessitating careful preoperative assessment with CBCT for safe dental implant placement and sinus floor elevation.
• The study challenges the assumption that tooth loss consistently leads to maxillary sinus pneumatization, as dentition status showed no significant impact on sinus volume or septa prevalence.
• Individualized CBCT evaluation is vital for surgical planning, ensuring predictable outcomes in procedures involving the maxillary sinus.