Investigation of paranasal sinuses based on dissection and multidetector computed tomography images in new zealand rabbits

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study is to present anatomic properties of paranasal sinuses and conchae by dissection and multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) images in New Zealand rabbits. Materials and Methods: In this study a total of 16 adult New Zealand rabbits of both sexes were used. After obtaining high resolution MDCT images of paranasal sinuses, the animals were euthanasied by conventional methods and then dissected their paranasal sinuses. Results: Based on dissection and MDCT images, it was determined that each half of New Zealand rabbit skull had maxillary sinus formed by two compartments that were divided by independently a nasolacrimal duct. We also showed that the well developed conchae were formed by dorsal, middle, ventral nasal conchae as well as endoturbinalia. Interestingly, we recorded no frontal, sphenoidal and ethmoidal sinuses in this species. The data obtained from dissection and MDCT images were in parallel to each other Conclusion: It has been suggested that this work using imaging technique in addition to common anatomical tecniques may contribute to future studies on paranasal sinuses and may add modern dimension to anatomical education.

Keywords

• dissection
• computed tomography
• paranasal sinuses
• concha
• rabbit