A retrospective study on variations of uncinate process of ethmoid bone using cone-beam computed tomography

Abstract

Background: Uncinate process (UP) is a key landmark in the lateral wall of the nose which plays a vital role in the ventilation of paranasal sinuses and is also the first structure to be resected during functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS). The variations in this structure can lead to intraoperative and postsurgical complications during the FESS procedure. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the variations of UP of ethmoid bone using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and Methods: Retrospective data of 100 cone-beam computed radiographic CBCT images of paranasal sinuses were evaluated using CS 3D version 3.10.12 software for variations in the superior attachment of UP (SAUP) using Landsberg and Friedman and the presence of pneumatization of UP. Out of 100 CBCT images, 56 were of males and 44 were of females. Statistical Analysis Used: Chi-square test was used for statistical analysis. Results: In our study, a total of 200 sides in 100 CBCT images were studied and Type I SAUP (51%) was observed as the most common type, followed by Type II (17%), Type IV (11.5%), Type III (10%), Type V (6.5%), and Type VI (4%) is the least common type observed. No statistically significant difference was observed among gender regarding SAUP. Pneumatization of UP was seen in 7% of cases, out of which 4% were in males and 3% were in females. Conclusion: Preoperative analysis of UP variations using CBCT can reduce intraoperative and postoperative complications during FESS with less radiation exposure.