(TC02) Crucial Role of Endodontists in Maxillary Sinus Pathosis Identification

Abstract: The maxillary sinus is a distinct and often challenging landmark for practitioners in the diagnostic, planning, and therapeutic phases of endodontic treatment. Limited field cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is the diagnostic modality of choice to accurately plan treatment in most cases for the practicing endodontist. The maxillary sinus is routinely captured in CBCT scans taken for endodontic evaluations, and it is vital for endodontists to be familiar with the anatomic variations or pathologic processes within the maxillary sinus. Ectopic teeth, antroliths, and mucosal thickening of the sinus are examples of findings that could provide challenges for the clinician if not prepared with the knowledge of how these cases present. Therefore, a comprehensive review and thorough knowledge to interpret the CBCT image is necessary to be able to identify pathologic changes in the maxillary sinus. The purpose of this table clinic is to provide examples of incidental findings within the maxillary sinus that a practitioner could be expected to find during the examination of a CBCT for planning purposes. In addition, the pathophysiology of the incidental findings in the maxillary sinus will be discussed, and the literature will be reviewed to allow clinicians to develop observation and interpretation skills and to aid them in differential diagnosis and proper referral of such patients.