Development of the paranasal sinuses in children

The development of computed tomography and functional endoscopic sinus surgery has improved diagnosis and management of sinusitis. It has also renewed interest in the developmental anatomy of the paranasal sinuses. There are significant differences between adult and pediatric sinus anatomy, and to safely perform functional endoscopic sinus surgery in children, the surgeon must be aware of these differences. To define the developmental anatomy of the paranasal sinuses, we analyzed 145 computed tomograms from patients under 18 years of age. The study emphasized landmarks at the level of the maxillary sinus ostium. In addition, distances and angles from the nasal spine to various points in the sinuses were determined. The structures were identified and traced on a digitizing tablet. Means and standard deviations were calculated for each measure as a function of age. This study can aid a better understanding of sinus development in children and provide guidance to the endoscopic sinus surgeon.