Comparison of sphenoid sinus variations and morphometric values in dolichocephalic and hyperbrachycephalic individuals

BackgroundThe internal carotid artery, optic, maxillary, and vidian nerves are important anatomical structures adjacent to the sphenoid sinus. In some individuals, these structures may protrude into the sinus, and this condition is important in surgical procedures.PurposeTo investigate the morphometric variations and anatomical differences in the sphenoid sinus and surrounding structures between dolichocephalic and hyperbrachycephalic skull types using computed tomography (CT).Material and MethodsCT images of dolichocephalic (n = 50), hyperbrachycephalic (n = 64), and mesocephalic (n = 52) individuals were used in the study. Sphenoid sinus position, dimensions, septum types, and protrusion and dehiscence for the carotid canal and optic canal, maxillary, and vidian nerves were evaluated. For statistical evaluation, the Mann-Whitney U-test, Kruskal-Wallis test, Pearson chi-square, Fisher's exact test, and Spearman's rho correlation were used in the study.ResultsThe difference between all skull types was found to be significant in the rates of protrusion and dehiscence in the carotid canal and the maxillary nerve and the difference between sphenoid sinus heights in two different skull types (dolichocephalic and hyperbrachycephalic) was also significant (<i>P</i> < 0.05). In septum typing, seven different septum types were detected. The most common sphenoid sinus position was postsellar in all skull types.ConclusionDifferences in the frequency of protrusion and dehiscence for the carotid canal and maxillary nerve in dolichocephalic, hyperbrachycephalic, and mesocephalic individuals reveal that the skull types of individuals are important in studies on the sphenoid sinus.