Endoscopic Sphenoid Sinus Anatomic Considerations: A Study on 60 Cadavers

Introduction: Sphenoid sinus can be considered a key element in advanced sinus and skull base surgery. Due to its importance, many researchers tried to document its characteristics and evaluate possible differences among different races and populations.

Materials and methods: This study was conducted between March 2017 and December 2018 on 60 fresh adult cadavers in Tehran Forensic Medicine Center, Tehran, Iran. The evaluated variables were distances between nasal spines, posterior wall of the sphenoid, pituitary gland, and the distance between the anterior and posterior ethmoid artery and optic nerve, which were calculated using a flexible ruler through the direct length in millimeter. Another important variable was dehiscence, which was evaluated in optic and carotid artery canals.

Results: After dissecting 120 sphenoid sinuses, the carotid artery was dehiscent in 24 (20%) cases, and optic nerve dehiscence was observed in 15 (12.5%) cadavers. The mean distance between the anterior wall of the sphenoid sinus and the anterior nasal spine was determined at 73.3±1.3 mm (rang: 58.3-87 mm), and the mean distance between the anterior part of the middle of the pituitary gland and the anterior nasal spine was estimated at 81.1±1.6 mm.

Conclusion: According to our finding, the dehiscence of the key structural organs may be more prevalent in the Persian sphenoid sinus, which should be considered carefully in the management of related pathologies.