From the Research
The incidence of frontal sinus septum (FSS) pneumatization in the general population is approximately 28%, as reported in the most recent study 1. This anatomical variation occurs when air cells develop within the bony septum that divides the right and left frontal sinuses. FSS pneumatization is clinically significant because it can complicate frontal sinus surgery by creating additional compartments that may be difficult to access and drain properly. The condition is typically diagnosed incidentally on CT imaging of the paranasal sinuses. Some key points to consider include:
- The pneumatization develops during the normal process of frontal sinus formation, which continues through adolescence and early adulthood 2.
- Surgeons performing endoscopic sinus procedures should be aware of this variation as it may require modification of surgical technique to ensure complete access to all sinus compartments.
- The presence of FSS pneumatization may also be associated with a higher risk of mucocele formation if drainage pathways become obstructed.
- A study from 2021 found that septal pneumatizations extended from neighboring air spaces in 73.1% of cases 3.
- Another study from 2004 described frontal sinus pneumatization in patients with no history of frontal sinus disease, and found a prevalence of interfrontal septal cell of 14% 4. However, the most recent and highest quality study 1 provides the most accurate estimate of the incidence of FSS pneumatization.