Maxillary Sinus

The maxillary sinus (sinus maxillaris, pna, bna, jna; synonym: maxillary sinus) is one of the paranasal sinuses, located in the body of the upper jaw. It is the largest of all the paranasal sinuses.

The maxillary sinus is a pyramidal cavity in the thickness of the upper jaw, lined with mucous membrane. It communicates with the nasal cavity through the maxillary anastomosis, located on the medial wall in the area of ​​the middle nasal meatus.

The maxillary sinus begins to form at 3-4 months of intrauterine development from a rudiment extending from the lateral wall of the nasal cavity. By the time of birth, the sinus has already been formed, but is still small in size. Final formation occurs by 18-20 years.

The maxillary sinus plays an important role in thermoregulation and humidification of inhaled air, as well as in the resonance of the voice. Inflammation of the maxillary sinus is called sinusitis and is one of the most common diseases of the paranasal sinuses.

The maxillary sinus, also known as sinus maxillaris, is one of the four sinuses located in the human head. It may also be referred to as PNA (jaw nasal sinus), BNA (lateral nasal alveolus), or JNA (jaw pit). The maxillary sinus is the largest of all the sinuses and is located in the upper jaw area, directly above the upper teeth.

Anatomically, the maxillary sinus is a cavity filled with air, which has the shape of a pyramid with the base facing down. It is bounded by the frontal bone behind, the orbit and nasal bone in front, and the maxilla and alveolar process below. The sinus cavity connects to the nasal passages through a narrow opening called the axillary opening.

The function of the maxillary sinus is to humidify and purify the inhaled air, as well as to soften the impact of chewing food. In addition, it also helps reduce the weight of the skull and adds resonance to the voice.

The maxillary sinus can become the target of various diseases and conditions. One common disease is sinusitis, which is characterized by inflammation of the sinus mucosa. This can cause nasal congestion, pain in the upper jaw or face, and discharge of purulent secretion.

Various methods, such as radiography, computed tomography or endoscopy, can be used to diagnose the condition of the maxillary sinus. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the disease and may include the use of anti-inflammatory drugs, rinsing the sinuses with saline solutions, and in some cases, surgery may be required.

The maxillary sinus is an important part of the anatomy of the head and plays a significant role in ensuring the normal functioning of the respiratory and digestive systems. Understanding the anatomy and function of this sinus allows one to diagnose and treat various diseases associated with it and maintain a person's overall health and well-being.