Maxillary sinus septa A panoramic radiographic study

Background The present study sought to determine the prevalence and characteristics of maxillary sinus septa on panoramic radiographs since conventional imaging modalities are still extensively used in developing country like India. The study assessed the prevalence and characteristics of maxillary sinus septa in edentulous and dentate maxillary arches. Patients and methods The sample consisted of 445 outpatients visiting the department of Oral Medicine and Radiology. Standardized panoramic radiographs were made of all the study subjects and then interpreted for various parameters pertaining to the maxillary sinus septa. Results The prevalence of maxillary sinus septa in Indian population was estimated to be 34%. Maxillary sinus septa prevalence in 800 maxillary sinuses (2 maxillary sinuses per subject in 400 subjects studied) was found to be 24.9%. There was no age, gender, or dental status predilection for the occurrence of maxillary sinus septa. A total of 255 maxillary sinus septa were detected in 136 subjects. Of the 255 maxillary sinus septa, 44.7 % were located in the anterior region, 44.7 % in the middle region, and 10.6 % in the posterior region. Conclusion A considerable number of maxillary sinus septa were seen in the Indian population of this study. There was no age or gender predilection for the occurrence of maxillary sinus septa. The majority of maxillary sinus septa were located in the anterior and middle regions of the maxillary sinus floor. The presence of maxillary sinus septa was unrelated to dental status.