Computed tomographic study of sphenoid sinus and its septations

Abstract

Introduction: Knowledge of sphenoid sinus anatomy and its variations is of prime importance in transsphenoidal endoscopic skull base surgery. Aim: The aim of the present study was to measure the bilateral sphenoidal sinus parameters [depth, width, and height] and determine the number and pattern of attachments of intra-sphenoid sinus septations in 52 subjects by computed tomography. Materials and Methods: Cranial computed tomographic images of 52 normal subjects were included in our study. Four cases in whom the septations were absent were excluded from the measurement of dimensions of the sinus. The depth, width, and height in 48 sphenoidal sinuses were measured electronically. The coronal and axial sections were taken and subsequently examined. Results: The mean depth, width, and height of sphenoid sinus in males on right side are 2.2458cm, 1.555cm, 1.9044 cm and on left side are 2.3877cm, 1.6519cm, 1.8613cm and in females on right side are 2.0475cm, 1.6258cm,2.05cm and on left side are 2.066cm, 1.2891cm and 1.7941 cm respectively. We noted single septum in 75?ses, double septa in 11.53?se, multiple septa in 5.76% cases and absence of septa in 7.69% cases. Conclusion: Anatomical knowledge of sphenoid sinus and its variations in size, pneumatization, intrasphenoid sinus septations and its relationship with the surrounding vital structures is prime importance before performing any endoscopic/open surgery involving skull base via trans-sphenoidal approach. Thus preoperative CT is mandatory to avoid injuries to the closely related structures of the walls of the sinus. Keywords: Sphenoid sinus, Morphometric study, Pattern, Septations.