Frontal sinus variability as a tool in forensic identification-A pilot study using radiographic images and software analysis

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of the frontal sinus as an indicator for personal identification Objectives: 1) To determine the presence or absence of symmetry of frontal sinus in each individual and draw comparison between males and females 2) To determine the number of lobes of frontal sinus in each individual and draw comparison between males and females 3) To determine the overall dimensions of frontal sinus in each individual and draw comparison between males and females Materials and Methodology: Paranasal sinus view radiographs of sixty four volunteers visiting the hospital’s outpatient department were randomly selected and the frontal sinuses were analysed using GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) 2.0 software, based on Ribeiro Fde’s measurement criteria. Results: The overall dimensions of the frontal sinus were greater in males as compared to females, with statistically significant difference. Bilateral symmetry of frontal sinus was seen in 55 individuals, while asymmetry was observed in 9 individuals, out of which right dominant asymmetry was found in 6 individuals and 3 volunteers had left dominant frontal sinus. Twenty seven individuals showed less than or equal to four number of lobes, while thirty seven individuals had greater than or equal to five lobes. No cases of unilateral aplasia or complete aplasia were observed. Conclusion: The frontal sinus displayed uniqueness in different individuals and can be used as a valuable aid in terms of personal identification.