Anatomical Variations of the Osteomeatal Complex in the Lateral Wall of Nose a Cadaveric Study

The morphology of the osteomeatal complex at the lateral wall of the nose varies greatly among different races and ethnic groups, indicating mandatory study of the surgical anatomy of this area for different populations. The aim of this study is to identify the shape, variations of the middle turbinate, distances, posterior extent measured between the three turbinates and the site of opening of maxillary sinus ostium in a sect of South Indian population. Twenty hemi sections of adult cadaveric heads were utilized for this study. Direct visual measurements were performed using a vernier caliper and a protractor. Majority of the specimens i.e., 85% showed Type I shape of the middle turbinate. The mean distance between anterior attachments of superior turbinate and middle turbinate was 16.95 mm. Posterior margin of middle turbinate ended more posteriorly in 90% specimens compared to inferior turbinate. The ostium of maxillary sinus opened in posterior 1/3rd of middle meatus in 60% specimens. Accessory middle turbinate was observed in 2 hemi sections. The ethnic anatomical variations were evident when compared with the Koreans. Being aware of these variations can guide the neurologist, otorhinolaryngologist, ophthalmologist and oral and maxillofacial surgeons who use the middle meatus and osteomeatal complex as a gateway to approach their respective regions of interest for surgical procedures. Experimental article (J Int Dent Med Res 2020; 13(3): 880-886)