Anatomical Variations in Sino-Nasal Region: A Computer Tomography (CT) Study

Objective: The aim of this study is to report the frequency of anatomical variations in the sinonasal region in adult Jordanian patients. Patients and Methods: This study was performed between April to November 2006 in the Department of Otolaryngology, King Abdullah University Hospital, Irbid, Jordan .110 consecutive nasal and paranasal sinus Computer Tomography (CT) for adult patients with nasal symptoms were reviewed for the presence of agger nasi cell, paradoxical middle turbinate, haller cell, and nasal septum deviation. We also report the incidence of pneumatisation in Crista galli, nasal septum, middle and superior turbinate as well as uncinate process. Results: There were 58 males and 52 females with an average age of 34 (age ranges from 16-77). Agger nasi cell was the most common variant and was observed in 84% of the cases, Concha Bullosa (CB) in 62%, Septal deviation in 43%. Pneumatization of Crista galli, Septum, Superior turbinate and Uncinate process was seen in 28%, 27%, 25% and 6%, respectively. Haller's cell was noted in 20% and paradoxical middle turbinate in 18%. Conclusion: Anatomical variations in sinonasal region are common in our patients with nasal symptoms and seem to be more frequent than those reported by other races. This emphasizes the importance of adequate preoperative and intraoperative review of paranasal sinus CT scans in patients undergoing ESS to avoid the potential of serious surgical complications.