[Computer-assisted anatomical evaluation of the nasal sinuses in infants].

Objective: To analyze the anatomical and developmental characteristics of nasal sinuses in infants; and provide potential evidence for the diagnosis and treatment of sinusitis in infants.

Method: Coronal CT scans for 36 infants (72 sides) were studied with the imaging station. Reference data were identified on these images using imaging station. The gasification conditions of the sinuses were identified and measured.

Result: 100% of the frontal sinuses were absent, while 100% of the maxillary sinuses were developed. The mean of the transverse and vertical diameters for the left side of the maxillary sinuses was (8.69 +/- 3.75) mm and (9.37 +/- 2.36) mm, respectively. While those for the right side were (8.95 +/- 2.79) mm and (9.06 +/- 2.66) mm, respectively. All of the anterior and posterior ethmoid sinuses were developed. The mean transverse and vertical diameters for the left side of the anterior ethmoid sinus were (3.63 +/- 1.17) mm and (8.21 +/- 2.72) mm, respectively. While those mean for its right side were (3.48 +/- 1.32) and (8.28 +/- 2.62) mm, respectively. The mean transverse and vertical diameters for the left side of the posterior ethmoid sinus were (4.09 +/- 1.13) mm and (6.61 +/- 1.36) mm, respectively. While those for the right side were (4.01 +/- 1.28) mm and (6.63 +/- 1.97) mm, respectively. 30.6% (22 sides) of the sphenoid sinuses were developed, while 69.4% (50 sides) were not.

Conclusion: The nasal sinuses in infants have already developed. The development of the maxillary and ethmoid sinuses was clear and definite. The pneumatization of the sphenoid sinus was defined in some babies, however, the pneumatization of the frontal sinus was not defined in all babies.