Newly defined sphenoid variation that can cause surgical insufficiency: sphenoseptal cell (sphenoseptal cell)

Abstract

AimIn this study, the morphological and radiological characteristics of a sphenoseptal cell (SSC) which originates from the posterior nasal septum and runs into the sphenoid sinus superiorly has been described. This cell has no relationship with the right or left sphenoid sinuses and it is independent from the anterior or posterior ethmoid cells.MethodsThe pa-ranasal sinus CT sections of 1193 patients who underwent endoscopic sinus surgery between 1998 and 2007 were evaluated for ‘sphenoseptal cells’.ResultsBased on the evaluations, SSCs were determined in 21 (1%) of 1193 patients.ConclusionThe SSC was determined at a rate of 1% based on the paranasal sinus evaluations. Despite rare prevalence of SSC, this cell should be well evaluated before any sphenoid sinus surgery. If a SSC is overlooked, it will not be exposed even when the anterior walls of the right and left si-nuses are opened. This will lead to surgical insufficiency and the need for a revision surgery.

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