Anatomical variations of maxillary sinus: a cone-beam computed tomography study

Abstract

The goal of current project was to evaluate the maxillary sinus dimensions using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) to assess anatomical variations. A total of 86 CBCT examinations were retrospectively performed in this regard. In this study, the Promax 3D CBCT unit was used for the dimension determination in para-axial, occlusal and panoramic views. In para-axial view, sinus height and width were 31.7 mm and 23.2 mm, in panoramic view (frontal plan) 29.9mm and 27.9 respectively and in occlusal view mean sinus length and width were 33.9 mm and 23.1 mm respectively. The dome-shaped maxillary sinus cyst was observed in 27% of patients. Sinus septum was determined in 29 % of patients (the mean height = 8.1 mm). Other results were included the distances from the anterior wall of maxillary sinus to the midline mean distance (31.4 mm, SD= 8.3) and the mean distance from the lower border of the maxillary sinus to the alveolar crest of the maxilla (11.0 mm, SD= 4.4). Anatomical variations of maxillary sinus can change some vital surgery planning. The cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) can be applied for an accurate assessment and additional validation of maxillary septum existence and avoid unnecessary surgical examinations.