Maxillary sinus
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Air-filled space located within the cheekbones
Latin | sinus maxillaris |
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The maxillary sinus (or antrum of Highmore) is one of the four paranasal sinuses, which are air-filled spaces located within the bones of the skull and face. The maxillary sinuses are the largest of the paranasal sinuses and are located within the maxilla (upper jaw) on either side of the nasal cavity.
Anatomy[edit | edit source]
The maxillary sinus is pyramidal in shape and has three walls: the anterior wall (facial surface), the posterior wall (infratemporal surface), and the medial wall (nasal surface). The roof of the sinus is formed by the floor of the orbit, and the floor of the sinus is formed by the alveolar process of the maxilla, which contains the roots of the upper teeth.
Function[edit | edit source]
The primary function of the maxillary sinus, like other paranasal sinuses, is to produce mucus that moisturizes the inside of the nose. This mucus layer protects the nose from pollutants, micro-organisms, dust, and dirt. The sinuses also help to lighten the weight of the skull and improve the resonance of the voice.
Clinical significance[edit | edit source]
Sinusitis[edit | edit source]
Maxillary sinusitis is an inflammation of the maxillary sinus, often caused by infection. Symptoms may include facial pain, nasal congestion, and discharge. Chronic maxillary sinusitis can result from unresolved acute sinusitis or other factors such as allergies or structural abnormalities.
Dental implications[edit | edit source]
Due to the close proximity of the maxillary sinus to the roots of the upper teeth, dental infections or procedures can sometimes lead to sinusitis. Conversely, sinus infections can sometimes cause referred pain to the upper teeth.
Surgical considerations[edit | edit source]
Surgical procedures involving the maxillary sinus include functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) and Caldwell-Luc operation. These procedures are typically performed to treat chronic sinusitis or to remove sinus tumors.
Development[edit | edit source]
The maxillary sinuses are present at birth but are very small. They continue to grow and develop throughout childhood and reach their full size after the permanent teeth have erupted.
See also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD