Oroantral communication, its causes, complications, treatments and radiographic features: A pictorial review.

PURPOSE: An oroantral communication (OAC) is an abnormal space between the maxillary sinus and oral cavity. The causes, complications, treatment, and radiographic features of OAC in 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional imaging modalities are discussed.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

This pictorial review presents a broad spectrum of imaging findings of OAC. Representative radiographs depicting OAC were chosen from our database. PubMed was used to conduct a comprehensive literature search of OAC.

RESULTS

Characteristic features of OAC include discontinuity of the maxillary sinus floor, thickening of the maxillary sinus mucosa, or a combination of both. Two-dimensional imaging modalities are the method of choice for identifying discontinuities in the maxillary sinus floor. However, 3-dimensional imaging modalities are also essential for determining the status of soft tissue in the maxillary sinus.

CONCLUSION

The integration of 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional imaging modalities is crucial for the correct diagnosis and comprehensive treatment of OAC. However, the diagnosis of OAC must be confirmed clinically to prevent unnecessary mental and financial burdens to patients.