Gender Evaluation by Assessment of Maxillary Sinus Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography in North Indian Population: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Background Gender determination is an essential component of forensic identification, especially in cases involving fragmented skeletal remains. The maxillary sinus is one of the most durable structures of the craniofacial skeleton and can aid in gender determination. Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) provides accurate three-dimensional imaging and enables precise morphometric evaluation. Aim To evaluate the role of maxillary sinus dimensions in gender determination using CBCT scans in a North Indian population. Materials and Methods A retrospective study was conducted on 100 CBCT scans obtained from the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, D.J. College of Dental Sciences and Research, Modinagar. Bilateral maxillary sinus dimensions including height, width, length, and area were assessed. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software. Independent t-test and discriminant function analysis were used for comparison between genders. Results Males demonstrated significantly greater maxillary sinus height, length, and area compared to females. Mean sinus height was 37.51 ± 2.37 mm in males and 33.45 ± 2.56 mm in females. Mean sinus length was 38.94 ± 3.21 mm in males and 35.64 ± 3.04 mm in females. Mean sinus area in males was 1063.2 ± 18.11 mm² and 967.4 ± 17.55 mm² in females. The overall accuracy for gender determination was 79%.