Anatomical Variations of Paranasal Sinuses on Multidetector Computed Tomography

Abstract

Background: Multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) imaging of paranasal sinuses prior to functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) has become mandatory. Material and methods: Comparative study of 20 patients underwent FESS to detect anatomical variations by MDCT and endo-nasal rhinoscopy examination, pre and postoperative. Results: The study was done on 20 patients, 14 females and 6 males, their age ranged from 6 years to 45 years with a mean of age (23.45). The most common anatomic variation found is the deviated septum in (45%) of the patients. The second anatomic variation is Onodi cell which appears in (35%) of patients, while the least found were congenital bony and mucosal atresia, Agger nasi cell and obstruction of maxillary ostium by bony septum which appear only in (5%). Conclusion: Multiplanar imaging, particularly coronal reformations, offers precise information regarding the anatomy of the sinuses and its variations, which is an essential requisite before surgery.