The ethmo-frontal angle: a new anatomic and radiologic landmark for use in sinus surgery.
OBJECTIVE
To identify anatomic and radiologic landmarks to assist with frontal sinus surgery.


METHODS
Retrospective review.


METHODS
Sinus CT scans of 50 patients were evaluated with respect to a new radiologic and anatomic landmark, the ethmo-frontal angle (EFA).


RESULTS
Right-sided EFA ranged from 135 to 171 degrees. Left-sided EFA ranged from 136 to 167 degrees. Measurements of both sides displayed a normal distribution. When right and left sides within individuals were compared, there was no correlation to indicate a high degree of variation between any particular patient's right and left side EFA.


CONCLUSIONS
The EFA is a new landmark to assist otolaryngologists during surgery on and around the frontal sinus. Normal values for this angle have been presented. Surgeons should be aware that asymmetry in a patient's EFA is common, and each side should be examined individually.
Becker
Samuel S
SS
Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA. sam.s.becker@gmail.com
Beddow
Peter A
PA
Duncavage
James A
JA
D005004:Ethmoid Bone / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery; D005626:Frontal Sinus / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D013517:Otorhinolaryngologic Surgical Procedures; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed