Abstract
Background
In the past many rough guides and estimates have been used to localize the face of sphenoid sinus for FESS due to the bony anatomical variations of sphenoid sinus as well as its relationship with adjacent vital structures.
Aims
The current study was performed to find out an easiest fixed bony landmark on computerized tomographic scans for localizing the sphenoid sinus ostium before embarking on to the FESS and Pituitary Surgery.
Methods
It was a retrospective study in which computerized tomographic (CT) scan axial cut of sinuses from 166 patients were reviewed to determine average distance between Posterior Maxillary Wall (PMW) and the Front of Sphenoid (FOS) in both right and left sides.
Results
Mean age of the patients was 41.18 +/- 14.75 (95 per cent CI=38.92-43.44) years. Males (n=88, 53.01 per cent) and females (n=78, 46.99 per cent) were almost equally participated in the study. The average anterior-posterior distance from the PMW to the FOS was on the right side 7.1mm and on the left side 7.9mm, the average in both right and left respectively was 7.5mm in the CT scans.
Conclusion
The posterior maxillary sinus wall may act as a concrete and unmistakable bony landmark on CT scan to localize the face of sphenoid sinus for the sinus surgeons performing FESS and pituitary surgery.