Applied Radiology of the Nose and Sinuses

This chapter aims to refine imaging diagnosis and to emphasize the anatomical basis for surgery. Prior knowledge of basic anatomy is mandatory. Personal computer (PC) offers post-study manipulations of the thin series (0.5–1 mm dicom files) in the CD generated by the CT or MR machines. These modern post-processing techniques include Multiplanar Reconstruction (MPR), 3D Rendering (MIP, Volume Rendering and Surface Rendering) and Virtual Endoscopy. 3D MPR images are used for proper understanding of anatomy, especially in dangerous areas and highlight the imaging anatomical basis for surgical procedures. MPR correlates coronal, axial, and sagittal planes together with the intersection of the two axes at the same point in the three planes. This post-study PC manipulations have been used for all sinonasal structures such as the uncinate process, nasal turbinates (middle, superior and inferior), major sinuses, skull base orientations, orbital walls, ethmoidal arteries, carotid arteries and optic nerves. With this technique, common pathological lesions have been studied as well as surgical planning has been refined.