Pediatric Maxillary Sinus Growth Curve

Abstract

Objective: Describe the growth pattern of the maxillary sinus in the pediatric population. This includes identifying growth spurts and comparing growth by side and gender. This data is intended to assist a surgeon recommending or delaying surgical treatment and to help with surgical planning.

Method: CT scans performed in patients under 18 years at a Children’s hospital from January 2006 through June 2009 were reviewed. Scans with sinus disease affecting the normal sinus anatomy were excluded. The height, width, and depth of the right and left maxillary sinuses were measured to characterize its growth pattern.

Results: The overall growth rate of each sinus from birth to age18 years is 1.98 mm³ per year. The growth from ages 1 to 7 years is 1.4 mm³ per year, 7 to 9 years is 3.1 mm³ per year, 9 to 12 years is 0.4 mm³ per year, 12 to 15 years is 4.8 mm³ per year, and 15 to 18 years is 1.5 mm³ per year. The predominant dimension contributing to growth during each growth spurt, ages 7 to 9 years and 12 to 15 years are height and depth respectively. The rate is 0.15 mm per year and 1.9 mm per year respectively.

Conclusion: Comparison of gender and side demonstrated no significant difference in height, width, or depth at each age. The maxillary sinus gradually grows from ages 1 to 7, 9 and 12 and 15 onward. Two growth spurts were identified from ages 7 and 9 and 12 and 15.