Determination of the Prevalence, Height, and Location of the Maxillary Sinus Septa Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography.

INTRODUCTION

Presence of the maxillary sinus septum would increase the risk of sinus membrane perforation during sinus floor elevation surgery. Three-dimensional radiographic techniques are recommended for the evaluation of the maxillary sinuses.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

This cross-sectional study evaluated 946 maxillary sinuses using the cone beam computed tomography. Presence of septa, number, location, height, and orientation were evaluated and recorded in data forms.

RESULTS

Of all patients, 44.8% had at least 1 septum; 36.8% had 1 septum in their right maxillary sinus, 27.4% in their left, and 35.8% in both sides. No statistically significant difference was found between males and females or the right and left maxillary sinuses in terms of the prevalence of septa. In 35.1% of patients, the septum was in the middle of the sinus. Mediolateral septa had the highest frequency (59.2%). The highest mean septum height in the medial zone was 6.3 ± 3.1 mm in the right sinus and 7.1 ± 3.1 mm in the left sinus.

CONCLUSION

Approximately 45% of patients had at least 1 septum, and this finding emphasizes the need for the assessment of the maxillary sinuses to prevent complications.