A-mode diagnostic ultrasound of maxillary sinuses: possibilities and limitations

The diagnostic possibilities and limitations of A-mode ultrasound of maxillary sinus diseases are presented. A group of 219 subjects suffering from various sinus diseases was examined. All cases were analyzed in parallel by means of X-rays, sinoscopy and ultrasonography. The investigated group was divided into seven subgroups, according to clinical entity (polypoid degeneration, polyps, cysts, et cetera). The comparison of the three techniques was made for each clinical entity. Some divergent findings that can be reached by these techniques were explained from the clinical point of view as well. The ultrasound A-mode technique plays a complementary role in the diagnostic process of maxillary sinus diseases. The main advantages of ultrasound technique are its harmlessness and non-invasivity.