The radiological evaluation of the nasal cavity, conchae and nasal septum volumes by stereological method: A retrospective cone-beam computed tomography study

Abstract

Background: The nasal cavity (NC) is the entrance to the respiratory system. Many studies have been conducted on the structure, function and volume of the NC. Only a few studies were performed assessing the volumetric values of NC and conchae.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the volumetric measurements of the NC, conchae and nasal septum using the stereological method.

Material and methods: Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images of 200 individuals (100 females and 100 males) aged 8-59 years were retrospectively evaluated. Inferior nasal concha and middle nasal concha, NC and nasal septum volumes were measured on these images. Measurements were made using point counting method, which is based on the Cavalieri principle. The mean values of the measured structures for 2 age groups and for each gender were obtained. Differences between the groups and genders of all parameters were examined. The volume fractions of measured volumes were calculated.

Results: The mean volumes of the nasal septum, left and right NC, left and right inferior nasal conchae, and left and right middle nasal conchae were 4.99 ±1.51 cm³, 7.44 ±2.93 cm³, 7.68 ±2.99 cm³, 3.10 ±1.11 cm³, 3.04 ±1.02 cm³, 1.32 ±0.56 cm³, and 1.28 ±0.49 cm³, respectively. Gender and age differences were statistically significant in all volumes (p < 0.05).

Conclusions: The data obtained in this study may assist clinicians in planning treatment, assessing the treatment results of pathological conditions within the NC, and help surgeons in preoperational and postoperational evaluations, especially in dentistry, otorhinolaryngology and plastic surgery.

Keywords: Cavalieri principle; cone-beam computed tomography; nasal cavity volume; stereology.