Characteristics and prevalence of underwood's septae on digital panoramic radiographs

Background: The term Underwood's septae is eponymously used for maxillary sinus septae. Septae may be defined as cortical bony partitions found in the form of inverted gothic arches that protrude from the sinus walls, dividing the sinus into two or more cavities. Aim: This study was aimed to determine the prevalence of maxillary sinus septae on digital panoramic radiographs. Settings and Design: This retrospective radiographic study was carried out in the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology at Teerthanker Mahaveer Dental College and Research Centre, Moradabad. Materials and Methodology: This retrospective study comprised of panoramic radiographs of 100 subjects of either gender, aged between 16 and 80 years. Bony projections having a minimum height of 2.5mm were considered as septae according to the criteria suggested by Velasquez Plata D et al. The location of maxillary sinus septae was defined by Underwood classification as anterior, middle, and posterior. Statistical analysis: The data were analyzed using the SPSS statistical software 21.0 Version. Results and conclusion: Maxillary sinus septae were seen in 18 out of 100 radiographs, out of which unilateral maxillary sinus septae were noted in 08 cases (right-sided in 3, left-sided in 5) while bilateral septae were seen in 10 cases. The prevalence of maxillary sinus septae was found to be 18% on digital panoramic radiographs. Oral radiologists should thus report maxillary sinus septae and the possibility of surgical complications that may arise during maxillary sinus surgeries.