[Age-specific stages of pneumatization of the spenoidal sinus in children based on the results of computed and magneto-resonance tomography].

The present study had the objective to evaluate specific features of pneumatization along with the growth rate of the sphenoid bone and the size of the sphenoidal sinus in children of different age. To this effect, computed and magneto-resonance tomograms of paranasal sinuses taken from 100 patients at the age from 2 to 15 years were analysed retrospectively. The data thus obtained included the size (length, height, and width) and anatomic position of the canals for the internal carotid artery and optic nerve with respect to the walls of the sphenoidal sinus as well as age-specific growth dynamics of this sinus. Its formation was followed up from the age of 1 year till 3-5 years. Pneumatization of the sphenoidal sinus was evaluated. It is recommended that the results of the study should be taken into consideration when carrying out endonasal diagnostic procedures and surgical endoscopic interventions during the childhood period.