Evaluation of Olfactory Fossa Depth Using Computed Tomography at a Tertiary Care Centre, Tamil Nadu

Introduction: Endoscopic sinus surgery is the well customary approach for managing the sinonasal disease. The olfactory fossa is a vulnerable part to be located in sinus surgery as it has a risk of anterior skull base injury. The anatomical knowledge of nose and para nasal sinuses which have been observed by computed tomography images plays a major role in surgical modality. Hence this study was an attempt to evaluate the depth of Olfactory fossa using CT images. Material & Methods: In the Radiology department, a convenient sampling method was used to conduct a retrospective record-based observational study. In 101 scans, a single radiologist evaluated the depth of the olfactory fossa and classified the images using the Keros classification. SPSS software was used for data analysis. Results: Right and left OF's average depths were 5.13 ±0.980 and 5.15± 1.007, respectively. The right side of the OF had Type II, I, and III OF in proportions of 96%, 3%, and 1%, respectively, according to the Keros classification. According to the Keros categorization, 95%, 4%, and 1% of the OF had Type II, I, and III OF on the left side, respectively. In 27.7% of the images, the OF is asymmetrical. Asymmetry and depth of the Olfactory Fossa were not related to gender. Conclusion: To minimise iatrogenic consequences during procedures, the depth of the olfactory fossa must be measured. Type II Keros was the most frequent variety of OF seen. Type III is the least common, but it is also more prone to injury