1. Analyses of the inferior turbinate using 3D geometric morphometrics: an anatomical study and discussion of the potential clinical implications
- Author
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Guillaume de Bonnecaze, N. Telmon, S. Vergez, P. Chaynes, E. Serrano, and F. Savall
- Subjects
inferior turbinate ,anatomy ,gender dimorphism ,age-related differences ,metric analysis ,Otorhinolaryngology ,RF1-547 - Abstract
Background: The inferior turbinate is probably the most important anatomical structure within the nasal airway. However, relatively little is known concerning its 3D anatomy. Complete removal of the IT may lead to severe functional disorders and reconstruction is often necessary. Methods: We performed an anatomical study using modern 3D reconstruction tools (Amira 5.4.2 software). The study was conducted on 200 inferior turbinates obtained from CT-scanned images. Metric and morphological analyses were performed. Our aim was to assess 3D polymorphism of the inferior turbinate in humans, and to evaluate gender dimorphism and age-related differences. Results: Anatomical characteristics of the inferior turbinate were poorly heterogeneous. Metric analyses revealed no gender dimorphism or age-related differences, except in the elderly, where the inferior turbinate was usually less curved. Morphological analyses defined that the mean shape was related to age and gender. Differences were limited and are summarized in this manuscript. Conclusions: This very reproducible methodology may have clinical applications regarding, e.g., sinonasal cancer or empty-nose syndrome.
- Published
- 2018
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