Pneumatization of the sphenoid sinus in Chinese: the differences from Caucasian and its application in the extended transsphenoidal approach

• DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7580.2011.01380.x
• Publication Date: 2011-04-25T07:17:39Z
• Authors: Yuntao Lu; Jun Pan; Songtao Qi; Jin Shi; Xi’an Zhang; Kuncheng Wu
• Keywords: Cadaveric spasm; Clivus; Sinus (botany); Sphenoid bone; Transsphenoidal surgery; Sphenoidal sinus

In recent years, the transsphenoidal approach has been extensively used surgically to treat parasellar, suprasellar, clival, and even petrous lesions. Extended pneumatization of sphenoid sinus (SS) is considered an indispensable element for extended (ETS) approach. Because most anatomical studies ETS use Caucasian subjects, present study aims clarify pneumatic extension types in Chinese individuals as well any differences from those Caucasians analyze these with respect application A total 200 computed tomography (CT) images SSs 18 adult cadaveric heads were selected observation measurement. The conchal, presellar, sellar comprised 6, 28.5, 65.5% respectively; according extra extension, prevalence lateral, lesser wing, combined was 11.4, 21.4, 0.8, 48.1% respectively. percentages anterior posterior clinoid processes, pterygoid process, optic strut 5.0, 1.0, 22.3, 7.0%, Onodi cells observed 61.1% sides heads, including 30.6% good identifiable optical or ICA bulges. These features related poor lateral clival gasification compared Caucasians, which might make surgery more dangerous. However, pneumatization, especially higher presentation cells, ensures that can be performed safely patients. general, measurements showing smaller volumes thicker bones bone landmarks are hard find suggest increased surgical risks population. this situation, carefully analysis presurgical CT magnetic resonance imaging scans important. Furthermore, approach, stricter intraoperative technological devices such neuronavigation ultrasound Doppler advisable.