Comparison of the maxillary sinus volume in different craniofacial vertical growth patterns: CBCT Study

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to compare maxillary sinus volume across different craniofacial vertical growth patterns using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methods: In this retrospective, descriptive, observational cohort study, 90 participants from the Jacksonville University School of Orthodontics clinic were evaluated. Subjects were categorized based on skeletal vertical facial growth patterns (high-angle, low-angle, normal-angle) using the SN-GoGn angle and assessed for anteroposterior skeletal type with ANB and Wits appraisal. Maxillary sinus volume (MSV) was measured using DICOM files analyzed usning Dolphin Imaging software. Statistical analyses, including one-way ANOVA and t-tests, were employed to compare MSV across different growth patterns, ANB and Wits classifications, and other variables. Results: The study demonstrated a significant difference in MSV between genders, with males showing larger volumes than females. No significant variations were found in MSV related to vertical growth pattern, dental classifications (ANB and Wits Appraisal), ethnicity, Y-axis, Mandibular Plane Angle (MPA), or Occlusal Plane. Conclusion: Gender significantly influences maxillary sinus volume, whereas other studied variables like vertical growth pattern and dental classifications show no significant impact.