Anatomic variations of the nose and paranasal sinuses in saudi population: computed tomography scan analysis

Abstract

Background: Knowledge of the anatomy constitutes an integral part in the total management of patients with sinonasal diseases. The aim of this study was to obtain the prevalence of sinonasal anatomic variations in Saudi population and to understand their importance and impact on the disease process, as well as their influence on surgical management and outcome. Materials and methods: This study is prospective review of retrospectively performed normal computed tomography (CT) scans of the nose and paranasal sinuses in adult Saudi population at Dammam Medical Complex. The scans were reviewed by two independent observers. Results: Of all CT scans that were reviewed, 48.4% were of female patients and 51.6% were of male patients. The mean age of the study sample was 38.5±26.5 years. The most common anatomic variation after excluding agger nasi cell was pneumatized crista galli, which was seen in 73% of the scans. However, the least common variation seen in this series was hypoplasia of the maxillary sinus, which was encountered in 5% of the cases. We did not detect a single pneumatized inferior turbinate among the studied scans. Conclusion: A wide range of regional differences in the prevalence of each anatomic variation exists. Understanding the preoperative CT scan is substantially important because it is the road map for the sinus surgeon. Detection of anatomic variations is vital for surgical planning and prevention of complications.