A description of the relationship between the nasomaxillary aperture and the paranasal sinus system of horses.

This research article primarily aims to enhance the understanding of the complex anatomical region of the equine paranasal sinuses, which is often targeted for treatment protocols in case of common equine diseases, using minimally-invasive procedures like balloon sinuplasty.

Anatomical Dissections

• The study was conducted on 10 heads from dead horses of varied ages. The horsheads, which were alternately divided (transected sagittally), helped in constituting the study sample.
• The dissection provided an insider’s view into the structures related to the left and right nasomaxillary apertures. All notable regions and structures were duly photographed and measured.

Foundational Observations

• The dissections revealed that crude and caudal maxillary sinuses had their entrance into the maxillary aperture. The emergence of these sinus entrances into a shared exit at the middle nasal meatus was observed.
• Another significant finding was that the caudal and rostral maxillary sinuses had independent, fully separate outlets. Essentially, these represented the entrances into the nasomaxillary aperture.

Analytical Assessment

• In the acquired data based on the dissections, no significant effect of sides (left or right) on the measured variables was observed. This means the anatomical aspects identified remain consistent, regardless of whether they pertain to the left or right side of the horse’s head.

Implications for Disease Treatment

• Given that diseases of the horse paranasal sinuses are common, the study provides crucial insights for the development of effective treatments. Understanding the anatomy can help in designing minimally-invasive, sinus-specific treatments.
• This study provides a robust base for further research and advancement in the non-invasive treatment procedures like balloon sinuplasty by shedding light on certain unwarranted yet consistent nasomaxillary aspects.