Sinonasal Anatomical Variations in Patients With Chronic Rhinosinusitis

Abstract

Objective: The nose and paranasal sinuses have a wide range of structural changes that are best diagnosed with computed tomography (CT). Anatomical variations are minor anatomical defects that occur around the osteomeatal complex that can block paranasal sinus drainage and ventilation. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of structural abnormalities of the nose and paranasal sinuses in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) patients. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 100 patients with CRS who visited the ENT outpatient department and had been suffering from the condition for more than 3 months without responding to medical treatment. CT PNS scans were used to determine the prevalence of anatomical abnormalities in these patients. Results: The majority of the patients were between the ages of 31 and 40 years. The most common presenting symptom was nasal obstruction (86%), followed by headache (60%). The most prevalent anatomical abnormality encountered in our study was a deviated nasal septum (70%) and concha bullosa occurring in 35% of cases. Conclusion: In our study, the most frequent anatomical variation was a deviated nasal septum. Patients with prolonged symptoms who are not improving with appropriate medical care are advised to get a CT scan to find any structural changes.