Evaluation of gender based on the size of maxillary sinus and frontal sinus using paranasal sinus view radiographs in Maharashtra population, India

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the study was to analyze gender-based differences in frontal and maxillary sinuses. Materials and Methods: A total of 100 patients which includes 50 males and 50 females were included in the study, and paranasal sinus (PNS) views were taken. All PNS views were exposed using MARS 50 machine using exposure parameters of 60–70 kVp, 35–40 mA. Height and width of maxillary and frontal sinuses were measured and compared between genders and between the sides. Results: The side-wise comparison of maxillary sinus height showed higher values on left than right in both males and females, whereas when width was compared, right width was higher than left width in both males and females. The side-wise comparison of frontal sinus parameters both width and height showed higher values on the left side than the right side in both males and females, but the values of both the sinuses were statistically insignificant. Conclusion: The width of left maxillary sinus and frontal sinus can be used as best discriminate parameter to study sexual dimorphism with an accuracy of 59% and 58% respectively. Introduction: The basis for forensic identification of unknown deceased persons depends on uniqueness of anatomical structures. Individual identification is a subtle concept and often one of the important priorities in mass disasters, road accidents, air crashes, fires, and even in the investigation of criminal cases.