A comprehensive morphometric analysis of crista galli for sex determination with a novel morphological classification on computed tomography images

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to examine the morphometry of the crista galli (CG) on paranasal sinus computed tomography (PNCT) images to develop a new approach of morphological classification with objective radiological criteria and to investigate the relationship of morphometric and morphological characteristics with gender.

Methods: The height, width, and length of the CG were measured on the PNCT images of 533 subjects (266 males, 267 females). Based on the dimensions and the presence of the cavitary component of the CG, the CG was classified into three morphological types. The success of CG dimensions and new morphological classification of CG in the determination of gender was evaluated with ROC and Paired Logistic Regression analyses.

Results: The morphometric cutoff values of the height, width, and length of the CG for the estimation of gender were determined as 15.15, 3.45, and 13.25 mm, respectively. CG length (accuracy 83.7%) showed more successful classification rate on gender determination as compared to height (accuracy: 81.4%), and width (accuracy 81.2%) of the CG. The presence of ossified type CG accurately identified the male sex at a rate of 88.7%, and teardrop type CG determined female sex at a rate of 82.9%. Tubular type CG identified male sex correctly at the rate of 65.8%.

Conclusion: The height, length, and width measurements of CG on PNCT images and the new morphological types recommended in this study can be used in the determination of gender with high accuracy rates.

Keywords: Classification; Computed tomography; Morphology; Sex determination.