Vidian Canal Types and Dehiscence of the Bony Roof of the Canal: An Anatomical Study

Abstract

Objective: To determine the prevalence of Vidian canal types and dehiscence of the bony roof of the canal. Methods:This study included 594 patients (391 males and 203 females; average age, 32.43±11.98 years; range, 18-65 years). Computed tomography (CT) images were analyzed in terms of the prevalence of Vidian canal types and dehiscence of the bony roof of the canal.Results: Vidian canal types 1, 2, and 3 based on the sphenoid sinus body were found on the right side in 33.8%, 29.7%, and 6.5%, and on the left side in 36.4%, 27.4%, and 36.2% of the patients, respectively. Dehiscence of the bony roof of the canal was found on the right side in 22.2% of the patients and on the left side in 26.6%. In terms of Vidian canal types based on the sphenoid sinus floor, types 1, 2, 3, and 4 were found on the right side in 53.5%, 27.4%, 7.6%, and 11.5%, and on the left side in 54.9%, 26.6%, 6.6%, and 11.9% of the patients, respectively. On the right side, Vidian canal type 2 was significantly (p=0.002) more frequent in males than in females. Conclusion:When studying the complex anatomy of the sphenoid sinus, it is essential to consider Vidian canal types. Before endoscopic sinus surgery the Vidian canal and other anatomical structures should be carefully evaluated in all patients during preoperative paranasal sinus CT imaging to avoid complications.

Anatomical relationship of pterygoid process pneumatization and vidian canal

“…Yegin et al in addition to vidian canal types have also studied the different configurations of the sphenoid sinus floor. 2 They report almost equal incidence of type 1 and type 3 varieties. In addition, they also note a dehiscent vidian canal in nearly one fourth of all scans studied.…”

“…According to Yegin et al, the incidence of type 1 and type 3 are of almost equal incidence. 2 Kazkayasi et al reported types of vidian canals, notes bilateral protrusion only in half of type 2 configuration. 15…”

“…The localization of the vidian canal in imaging slices during computerized tomography (CT) is of significance during evaluation of pathologic condition of paranasal sinuses. 1 , 2 …”

Study of the pterigidal canal (vidian canal) through images of cone beam computer tomography.

“…The identification of the vidian canal on CT images is important considering the endoscopic sphenoid sinus surgery, the transnasal endoscopic approach of the internal carotid artery, the transnasal endoscopic surgery of the skull base or tumors resulting from the vidian nerve [7,8]. The vidian canal can be dissected and followed during endoscopic endonasal surgery to improve orientation and location of important anatomy [9,10].…”

Challenges of endoscopic approach in sphenoid sinus surgery for beginners

“…The vidian canal is found on the lateral wall of the pterygopalatine fossa. Its anatomical relation with the internal carotid artery makes it a reliable landmark to identify the petrous part of ICA in the endoscopic approach of the skull base surgery 16 . The vidian canal is usually located inferiorly and laterally of the ICA.…”