Anatomical Variations of Nose and Para-nasal Sinuses in Computed Tomography Scan

Abstract

Introduction: Paranasal sinuses (PNS) are a group of air-filled spaces developed as an expansion of the nasal cavities, eroding the adjacent bone structures. The common anatomical variants are deviated nasal septum, agger nasi cells, concha bullosa, uncinate process variations, onodi cells, paradoxical middle turbinate and haller cells. CT is a gold standard for  evaluation of anatomical variations of the nose and paranasal air sinuses which is important in patients who are undergoing CT for various rhinological reasons.

Methods: This was a retrospective study done from the database of the department of Radio diagnosis, Devdaha Medical College and Teaching Hospital (DMCTH), Bhaluhi, Rupandehi, Nepal during last one-year period from   1^st Jan 2023 to 31^st December  2023.

Results: A total of 100 CT examinations of the PNS were included in this study. The most common anatomical variation was deviated nasal septum seen in 61%. Other anatomical variation were agger nasi cells in 57%, concha bullosa in 42%, paradoxical medial turbinate was seen in 19%, onodi cell was seen in16%, uncinate process variation was seen in13%, haller cell was seen in 12%. There were more than one anatomical variations present on single scan and there were no anatomical variation in 10% cases.

Conclusion : Numerous sinonasal anatomic variants are frequently seen on CT scans which  is important not only for diagnosis but also for planning surgery in order to avoid complications.