Analysis of the Morphology of Maxillary Sinus Septa on Reconstructed Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Images

Abstract

Preoperative assessment of maxillary sinus anatomy can prevent complications associated with sinus grafting or implant procedures. The purpose of this study was to measure the frequency, numbers, locations, orientations, and heights of maxillary sinus septa. Reconstructed cone-beam computed tomographic images of 1,012 sinuses were analyzed using NewTom VG software (NNT 2.21, ImageWorks, Elmsford, NY). This cross-sectional study included patients who underwent radiography at the department of radiology. The presence, numbers, locations, orientations, and heights of septa were analyzed. To establish multiple predictors in this study, groups were defined according to different radiographic features of the septa. Differences between male and female groups and between edentulous and dentulous groups were tested with χ(2) tests and the level of significance was set at 5%. The sample consisted of 506 patients (168 men and 338 women; average age, 35.1 yr). A significantly (P < .05) greater occurrence rate of 57.4% was observed in the edentulous group compared with the rate of 39.7% observed in the dentulous group. The difference in the prevalence of maxillary sinus septa between the edentulous and dentulous groups was statistically significant (P < .05), and the septa exhibited variable characteristics. It is essential and effective to analyze computed tomographic images of sinuses to evaluate the characteristics of septa before performing surgical procedures.