Background and Objectives: Haller cells, as an anatomical variation of the paranasal sinuses, may play a role in the development or exacerbation of maxillary sinus pathologies. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the presence and size of Haller cells and the thickness of the Schneiderian membrane in the maxillary sinus using CBCT images.
Materials and Methods: In this retrospective study, CBCT images of 203 patients (136 women and 67 men) were examined at the Department of Maxillofacial Radiology, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences. The presence or absence of Haller cells, their size (small, medium, and large), and the thickness of the Schneiderian membrane were evaluated across various imaging sections. Data were analyzed using appropriate statistical tests.
Findings: Haller cells were observed in 69 patients (34%).Results: Haller cells were observed in 69 patients (34%), predominantly unilaterally. The results indicated a significant association between the presence of Haller cells and increased Schneiderian membrane thickness (p=0.042). Furthermore, medium-sized (p=0.015) and large (p=0.005) Haller cells were associated with a significant increase in sinus membrane thickness, whereas this association was not significant for small cells (p=0.068).Conclusion: The findings of this study indicated that the presence of Haller cells, particularly those of larger size, may be associated with increased Schneiderian membrane thickness. This highlights the importance of considering anatomical variations during the assessment and treatment planning of the maxillary sinus.