RESUMO
BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to assess the anatomic aspects of the maxillary sinus septa, by means of computed tomography images, in a Brazilian population. The results might be of clinical significance in sinus lift surgery planning. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In the study, 123 computed tomographs obtained from a private radiology clinic were used. They were analyzed by a single, trained and calibrated observer in order to evaluate the presence, quantity, localizations, dimensions, orientations and different characteristics in dentate, partially edentulous and completely edentulous individuals of the sinus septa. RESULTS: Of the individuals analyzed, 26% had a septum in the maxillary sinus, with 59.6% being classified as complete, 44.2% showed prevalence for the middle region of the maxillary sinus. There was no statistically significant difference between the right and left sides (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The majority of patients in the sample analyzed presented to septa in the maxillary sinuses, and when septa were present, a higher number of occurrence was noted in the middle region of the maxillary sinus. (This region is normally the choice of sinus lift surgery). There was no predilection relative to age, sex and type of dentition. Key words:Multislice computed tomography, maxillary antrum, anatomic variation.
RESUMO
Introduction. Early diagnosis of calcified atheromas may decrease morbidity and mortality caused by brain and cardiovascular diseases, in which atherosclerosis is the main etiological factor of these pathologies. Dental examinations with the aim of detecting this pathology have been in progress since 1981, such as panoramic radiography, considered the most widely studied method for this diagnosis. However, some limitations of this exam have been reported with reference to inability to visualize the cervical region and difficulty of establishing a precise diagnosis because of many structures and calcifications that have similar radiographic characteristics. Case Report. The present study to describe a dental radiographic technique for establishing the differential diagnosis of calcified atheromas regarding other calcifications and reporting 3 clinical cases that demonstrate its effectiveness in different clinical situations. Discussion. Manzi Projection can promote a differential diagnosis of calcified atheromas in dental practice and consequently subsidize the clinician for referring the patient to the physician.
