Association between Superior Attachment of Uncinate Process and Frontal Sinusitis

Introduction The uncinate process (UP) is a sickle shape bone. The superior attachment of uncinate process can be into the lamina papyracea (Type I), the skull base (Type II) and the middle turbinate (Type III). Drainage of the frontal sinuses depends on the superior attachment of the UP and alterations in drainage predisposes to sinusitis. This study looked at the association between the superior attachment of UP and chronic frontal sinusitis. Methods A cross sectional study was conducted in the Otorhinolaryngology out-patient department. Patients were diagnosed as chronic rhinosinusitis according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery Rhinosinusitis Task Force criteria. Patients then underwent a non-contrast CT scan of paranasal sinuses. Superior attachment of the UP was noted from the CT, and the association between the superior attachment of the UP and chronic frontal sinusitis was recorded. Results Among the 144 sides examined it was seen younger (20-29 years), female (52.8%) patients were more affected by the condition. The most common superior attachment of the UP was into the lamina papyracea on right and left sides were 75% and 73.6%. There was a significant association between the superior attachment of the uncinate process and chronic frontal sinusitis (p=0.001 and .002) on both sides. Conclusions Among the superior attachments of the uncinate process, attachment into the lamina papyracea was the commonest. It was noted that chronic frontal sinusitis was significantly associated with the superior attachment of the uncinate process.