Gender-specific differences in feasibility of pre-lacrimal window approach

Sci Rep. 2021 Apr 8;11(1):7791. doi: 10.1038/s41598-021-87447-w.

Abstract

The feasibility and surgical effort of a pre-lacrimal window approach (PLWA) depends on the width of the bony window anterior to the nasolacrimal duct. This study aimed to investigate gender-specific differences in feasibility of PLWA. A consecutive series of paranasal computed tomography scans from 50 females (n = 100) and 50 males (n = 100) were retrospectively analyzed. The primary outcome measure was the antero-posterior length of the bony pre-lacrimal window (BPLWA). The secondary outcome measure was the distribution of Simmen's PLWA feasibility types (major, moderate and minor surgical effort). On average, males had a 1.5 mm (95% CI 0.8-2.2) significantly higher BPLW length in comparison to females [t(198) = 4.4, p < 0.0001]. The requirement of major surgical effort occurred 29% more frequently in females [χ2(1) = 17.7, p < 0.0001], whereas the necessity of moderate surgical effort was 21% more prevalent in males [χ2(1) = 8.8, p = 0.003]. The need of only minor surgical effort was twice as high in males compared to females [χ2(1) = 3, p = 0.081]. Our data indicates that females require more significant surgical effort during a PLWA to gain access to the maxillary sinus. These results are highly informative as a high amount of bone removal and nasolacrimal duct dislocation are associated with a higher likelihood of complications.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Maxillary Sinus / diagnostic imaging*
  • Maxillary Sinus / surgery
  • Middle Aged
  • Nasolacrimal Duct / diagnostic imaging*
  • Nasolacrimal Duct / surgery
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Sex Factors*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods*