Computed tomogram findings of mucous recirculation between the natural and accessory ostia of the maxillary sinus.
BACKGROUND
The phenomenon of recirculation involves the circulation of mucous secretion between the natural ostium and other openings and is observed mainly after surgery when the surgical opening is not connected.


METHODS
Seven patients with a mucous stream transporting into an accessory ostium, as found during endoscopic examination, were entered into study. The coronal computed tomogram findings of the mucous recirculation were analyzed at three levels: anterior, middle, and posterior portion of it.


RESULTS
The anterior portion was visualized at the level of the natural ostium in five patients. The middle portion inside the maxillary sinus was visible in six cases. The posterior portion was visualized at the level of the accessory ostium in five patients. Among the axial scans, mucous rings were visible in two patients.


CONCLUSIONS
The primary mucous recirculation between the natural and accessory openings is shown as a ring structure in coronal computed tomogram scans.
Chung
Seung-Kyu
SK
Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Kanganmku, Seoul, Korea. skchung@smc.samsung.co.kr
Cho
Do Yeon
DY
Dhong
Hun Jong
HJ
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001826:Body Fluids / Q000502:physiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008443:Maxillary Sinus / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D008875:Middle Aged; D012852:Sinusitis / Q000503:physiopathology; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed