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

Abstract

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.