Location and Diameter of the Posterior Superior Alveolar Artery among Iraqi Subjects Using Computed Tomography

Abstract

Background: Posterior superior alveolar artery (PSAA) is branch of the maxillary artery. It usually supplies the lateral wall of the sinus and overlying membrane. Evaluation and awareness of the anatomy of maxillary sinus before surgery is crucial to avoid surgical complications. The aim of this study is to examine the location and diameter using computerized tomography (CT) scans. Materials and Methods: This study included 180 Iraqi subjects (99 males and 81 females) with age more than 16 years old. CT scans for (right and left) Maxillary sinuses were done for each patient. The information obtained was assessed in a coronal multi planar reconstructions images (MPRs) in order to obtain the location and diameter of the PSAA. Results: The PSAA was observed in 73.6% of all sinuses; 61.94% of arteries were intraosseous and the mean diameter was(1.15 ± 0.38) mm. Conclusions: CT scan is valuable tool in evaluation and localization of the PSAA before maxillary sinus surgery.