Korean J Otolaryngol-Head Neck Surg.  1998 Aug;41(8):1015-1020.

Pnumatization of the Sphenoid Sinus in Children Evaluated by Magnetic Resonance Imaging

• Jang YJ
• Kim SC

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The paranasal sinuses present considerable diversity in the degree of pneumatization in pediatric age group. However, the developmental pattern and degree of pneumatization of the sphenoid sinus in children has not been well understood. This study was designed to evaluate the multiplanar developmental pattern of the sphenoid sinus pneumatization in children using magnetic resonance (MR)imaging technique.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
The MR images of the sphenoid sinus in 152 children with ages ranging from 2 months to 163 months were retrospectively reviewed. The degree of pneumatization was independently analyzed both in axial and sagital image, and then correlated with aging of the studied children.
RESULTS
The sphenoid sinus pneumatization was identifiable as early as 2 months of age on axial image, and at 4 months of age on sagittal image. The sphenoid sinuses were unexceptionably pneumatized at the age of 3 on axial image and at the age of 6 on sagittal image. At the age of 9, all the children showed pneumatization of grade 2 or more on both axial and sagittal images.

Keyword

Sphenoid sinus; Pneumatization; MR

MeSH Terms

Aging
Child*
Humans
Magnetic Resonance Imaging*
Paranasal Sinuses
Retrospective Studies
Sphenoid Sinus*