Vol. 5, Issue 2, Part A (2023)

Background: Multiple classifications of the types of Sphenoid Sinus (SS) pneumatization exist as Conchal, presellar, sellar and postsellar according to extension of the pneumatization to the sellar turcica. The pneumatization patterns of the SS have significant surgical implications due to their associated inconsistent neurovascular relations.
Aim: To study the pneumatization patterns of SS in patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis (CRS) in the Delta Region.
Methods: This is a prospective prevalence study which was performed on 200 CONSECUTIVE patients with CRS proved by radiological signs. Patients selected from the outpatient clinic of the Otorhinolaryngology Department of Tanta University Hospital during the period between February 2021 to July 2021.
Results: There was significant statistical difference between ethmoidal, sphenoidal CRS and other types (maxillary, frontal and pansinusitis) in relation to SS pneumatization patterns. Ages of patients range between 16 years to 60 years.
Conclusions: The sellar type of SS pneumatization was found to be the most clinically relevant variant among our population in 35% of the patients. There was significant statistical difference between ethmoidal, sphenoidal CRS and other types of rhinosinusitis in relation to sphenoid pneumatization patterns. There were no significant statistical differences between either gender or age in chronic rhinosinusitis. The preoperative CT evaluation of the sellar region is a necessary whenever transsphenoidal surgery is considered to determine the location and extent of SS walls, to shorten the operative time, and to minimize morbid consequences.