Variations of Anterior Skull Base Seen on Computed Tomography Scans of the Paranasal Sinuses

Abstract

Context: The anterior skull base (ASB) and the paranasal sinuses are known for anatomical variations. Therefore, a preoperative assessment for the assessment of these variations is a necessity. This study aims to determine the profile of variations of the ASB using computed tomography of the paranasal sinuses (CT-PNS) scans. Settings and Design: Observational Study. Materials and Methods: Forty CT-PNS scans were studied with measurement of different parameters. Statistical Analysis: Observational study analysis – Descriptive stats, t-tests, Chi-square, nonparametric tests, analysis of variance, regression, P Type-1). Type I was more common among female, whereas Type II was more common. The existence of the anterior ethmoidal foramen is a dependable marker for the anterior ethmoidal artery. In the group under investigation, there was no lamina papyracea abnormality. Conclusion: This study aims to assess anatomical variations in the Indian population undergoing ASB surgeries, contributing to the current understanding of Indian paranasal sinuses and skull base dynamics.

Keywords

• anterior ethmoidal artery
• anterior skull base
• endoscopic sinus surgery
• keros
• olfactory fossa