Abstract:

Objective    To discuss the anatomy of endoscopic frontal sinus surgery through the nasal septum.    Method    Adjacent anatomical structures of the nasal septum and the frontal sinus were measured on 30 adult cadaveric heads fixed by formalin.    Results    The intersection formed by the pars perpendiculars and horizontal part of the middle nasal concha, which corresponded to the nasal septum was called the M point. The horizontal distance from the M point to the nasal bone was（20.07±6.21）mm,  the distance from the M point to the anterior extremity of the frontal sinus was (27.59±7.71)mm,  from the M point to the posterior extremity of the frontal sinus was (25.35±6.69) mm, and from the root of the middle nasal concha to the first fila olfactoria was （5.53±1.41)mm. The anteroposterior diameter of the proximal wall of the frontal sinus was (7.62±2.45)mm, the coronary diameter of  the proximal wall of the frontal sinus was (9.41±3.37)mm, the transvasal diameter of the septum of the frontal sinus was (16.97±3.23)mm, and the anteroposterior diameter of the septum of the frontal sinus was(12.34±2.23)mm. The root of the middle nasal concha attachment with the skull base and the first fila olfactoria angled at 65 degree.    Conclusion    The top front of the nasal septum is connected to the fundus of the frontal sinus,  both the M point and the first fila olfactoria are important safety signs of endoscopic frontal sinus surgery through the nasal septum. Frontal sinus surgery through the nasal septum is feasible.

Key words: Frontal sinus; Endoscopy;  Anatomy;  Fila olfactoria