Frequency of Computed Tomography Paranasal Sinuses in the Evaluation of Sinusitis

Background: Recent advances in the understanding the pathophysiology of paranasal sinuses has revolutionized the surgical management of chronic and recurrent sinusitis. Coronal plane computerized tomographic (CT) scanning has dramatically improved the imaging of paranasal sinus anatomy as compared to sinus radiographs. Increasingly, subtle bony anatomic variations and mucosal abnormalities of this region are being detected. Data regarding the background prevalence of these findings are needed to determine their clinical relevance. Objective(s): To determine the frequency of computed tomography paranasal sinuses in the evaluation of sinusitis. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Al-Razi Health Care, Lahore. From May 2018 to September 2019, data of 177 patients were collected through convenient sampling. Adults and children with acute maxillary sinusitis/ rhino sinusitis were included in the study. Data of patients with recent cold associated with irritating runny nose and headache along with congestion was collected from the patients. Statistical software for social sciences (SPSS version 22.0) is used for the analysis of data. Results: Out of 177 patients collected, 82 were females and 95 were males. History of running nose was collected. 51 out of 185 had running nose. 120 patients were presented with headache. 115 had the history of cough. 102 had shortness of breath and 107 had congestion. 59 patients were suffering from cold. The final result came out to be 106 sinusitis patients. Conclusion(s): Pathologies in the maxillary sinus are frequently found in CBCT imaging and have to be treated or followed-up accordingly. CBCT is applicable for diagnosis and treatment planning of clinically present sinusitis.