Morphometric evaluation of bony nasolacrimal canal in Libyan adults in Benghazi using CT scan

Shahed Almashity; Mustafa Karwad; Osama Araibi; Arwa  Alfitorey; Abdulaziz Algadi

doi:10.54361/LJMR.19.1.10

Authors

Shahed Almashity Department of Clinical Anatomy, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Libyan International Medical University, Benghazi, Libya. Author
Mustafa Karwad Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Benghazi, Libya. Author
Osama Araibi Department of Clinical Anatomy, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Libyan International Medical University, Benghazi, Libya. Author
Arwa Alfitorey Department of Clinical Anatomy, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Libyan International Medical University, Benghazi, Libya. Author
Abdulaziz Algadi Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Benghazi, Libya Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54361/LJMR.19.1.10

Keywords:

Morphometric, nasolacrimal, variations, interventions

Abstract

Introduction: The nasolacrimal duct (NLD) consists of two segments: one surrounded by the maxillary bone and the other extending from the lacrimal sac to the bony nasolacrimal duct (BNLD) entry. Given its canal-like structure, the narrowest point of the NLD may play a crucial role in primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction (PANDO). This study aimed to assess the anatomical characteristics of the NLD, specifically the proximal and distal bony diameters, as well as the length of the bony nasolacrimal canal, using computed tomography (CT). Additionally, the study sought to determine whether these parameters differ between males and females.

Method: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 413 individuals (145 females and 268 males) randomly selected from Benghazi Medical Center and Aljala Hospital. CT scans were used to measure the anatomical dimensions of the NLD. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), employing t-tests and one-way ANOVA to compare the parameters across genders and age groups, respectively.

Result: The length of the bony nasolacrimal canal was significantly greater in males than in females. However, no significant differences were found between males and females in the proximal and distal diameters of the bony nasolacrimal canal. Age groups showed no significant correlations with the proximal and distal diameters, but a marginally significant correlation was found between age and the length of the bony nasolacrimal canal.

Conclusion : This study offers valuable insights into the anatomical features of the nasolacrimal duct system. It highlights that, while there are no significant differences in the proximal and distal diameters between males and females, the length of the bony nasolacrimal canal is significantly longer in males. These findings enhance our understanding of anatomical variations in the nasolacrimal duct and could inform clinical approaches to managing nasal obstruction in adults.

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