Evaluation of Paranasal Sinus Volumes and Anatomic Variations in Patients With Rhinogenic Headache

Abstract

Background: Rhinogenic headache is a common finding that may occur due to features related to the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses without any underlying rhinological disease. It is thought that paranasal sinus volumes and anatomical variations may have an effect on this symptom. The aim of this study is; to investigate the paranasal sinus volumes and remarkable anatomical variations in patients with rhinogenic headache. Materials and methods: Paranasal sinus tomography images and hospital files of 72 patients who were referred to the otolaryngology department were evaluated retrospectively. The volumes were calculated by the sinus volume index method and the presence of septal spur, concha bullosa, onodi cell, haller cell, agger nasi cell and paradoxical middle turbinate were evaluated as anatomical variations. As the control group, the data of 40 patients who were operated with open technique rhinoplasty for esthetic purposes were taken and the results were compared statistically. Results: The frontal sinus volume index was 4.57 cm3 in the patient group and 6.02 cm3 in the control group, and this difference was statistically significant. No significant difference was found between the two groups in other paranasal sinus volumes. The presence of septal spur was observed more frequently in the patient group, and this result was found to be statistically significant. There was no significant difference between the two groups regarding other anatomical variations. Conclusions: The low sinus volume may have an effect on the formation of rhinogenic headache. The presence of a septal spur may create a possible mucosal contact point, leading to rhinogenic headache.