Three-Dimensional Analysis of the Maxillary Sinuses in Ancient Crania Dated to the V–VI Centuries BCE from Opi (Italy): Volumetric Measurements in Ancient Skulls from the Necropolis of Opi, Abruzzi, Italy

Abstract

Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) can provide precise information about complex anatomical structures as it is characterised by rapid volumetric image acquisition with high resolution. The aim of this study was to provide measurements for 20 ancient skulls of the Samnite people found in the necropolis of Opi, a small and isolated mountain village in Abruzzo, a region in central Italy. All the images (left and right) of the 20 ancient skulls from Opi were acquired. All the data are the property of the Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine and Dentistry of G. D’Annunzio University, Chieti, and different parameters (area and volume) were measured and evaluated. The mean and standard deviation of the facial measurements were also calculated. All the data were subjected to statistical analysis. CBCT scan data of 20 fossil skulls did not show significant values regarding the MS area and the volume between the right and left sides. In the ancient skulls, no difference was found between the right and left sides.

Keywords

• upper airway
• maxillary sinus
• maxillary sinus volume
• maxillary sinus size
• maxillary pneumatisation
• facial height