Assessment of Anatomical Features of Maxillary Sinus Septa in CBCT Images

Abstract

Background and Objective: Today, dental implants are a predictable and common treatment method for edentulous areas, Anatomical variations of the maxillary sinus, such as the presence of septa, are considered as an interfering factor in implant and sinus surgeries, which can increase the risk of surgery, such as sinus membrane perforation. This study was aimed at detecting the characteristics of maxillary sinus septa such as prevalence, location and direction in a sample of Mashhad population. Methods: In this retrospective descriptive cross-sectional study, data were collected from patients of a private oral and maxillofacial radiology center in Mashhad who had referred for CBCT imaging within one year. CBCT images of 150 patients (61 males and 89 females) in the age range of 18 to 77 years were observed in three axial, coronal and sagittal views. Septa location, septa side, dental position of the area, septa connection to the sinus floor was recorded. Findings: In general, 119 (39.76%) septas were observed in 300 sinuses. On the right and left sides, 42.7% and 36.7% of the sinuses had septa, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between the two sides (p=0.288). Sixty-six septas (37.1%) were observed in the female patients and 53 septas (43.4%) in the male patients. There was a statistically significant difference in the frequency distribution of septa between regions (p<0.001). Anterior- posterior (Sagittal) and Mesio-lateral (Transverse) direction of septa was observed in 37 (28.46%) and 74 (56.92%) cases respectively. The most frequent orientation of septa was transverse. Conclusion: The present study showed, Antral septa may be present in any area of the maxillary sinus with different directions and wall connections.