A STUDY OF ANATOMICAL VARIATIONS OF OSTEOMEATAL COMPLEX IN CHRONIC RHINOSINUSITIS PATIENTS: TOMOGRAPHIC FINDINGS

Abstract

Background: The osteomeatal complex (OMC) is a common channel that links the frontal sinus, anterior ethmoid air cells and the maxillary sinus to the middle meatus, allowing airflow and mucociliary drainage. Anatomical variations of it can cause obstruction and allow the occurrence of rhinosinusitis (CRS) and have an imperative role in surgical treatments. Knowledge of its variations is very important for radiologists as well as endoscopic sinus surgeons for preoperative evaluation to avoid damage to adjacent vital structures. The purpose of this study was to find the incidence of anatomical variations in the OMC among CRS patients. Methods:This present study titled was conducted in the Department of head neck surgery, Boarder guard hospital, Dhaka from April 2019 to April 2021. A total of 140 patients with chronic sinusitis not responding to the medical treatment and who were willing to undergo Endoscopic Sinus Surgery were included in his study.Results: In the present studysingle or moretypes of anatomical variations were observed 135 (96.42%) patients. Among the various types of anatomical variations were observed Deviated nasal septum was found to be the most common in 106 (75.71%), followed by Inferior turbinate hypertrophy in 64(45.71%) and  Concha bullosain 54 (38.57%)patients.Other anatomical variation including variation of Uncinate process,Agar nasi cell,Onodi cell,presence of Haller cell are less common.Conclusion: There are many variations in the anatomy of the osteomeatal complex. The presence of these may predispose to sinus pathology and increased risk of intra-operative complications. It is important to pay close attention to anatomical variations in the preoperative evaluation to avoid possible complications.