Prevalence of Zygomatic Air Cell Defects in a South Indian Population- A Retrospective Study

Background: Pneumatized air cells present in the zygomatic process of the temporal bone are termed Zygomatic Air Cell Defects (ZACDs). They are merely the extensions of the mastoid air cells anteriorly into the zygomatic process of the temporal bone which are important for surgical perspective. Panoramic radiography is useful to display these zygomatic air cell defects. Aim: This study was undertaken to assess zygomatic air cell defects using digital panoramic radiograph. Materials and methods: This involved retrospective evaluation of 1680 panoramic radiographs of patients of Indian origin. Results: Out of 1680 radiographs, Zygomatic Air Cell Defects were seen in 41 panoramic radiographs with an overall prevalence of 2.4%. Conclusion: The overall prevalence of ZACDs is proportionally low but the diagnostitians and surgeons should be vigilant when dealing with zygomatic bone and thoroughly evaluate for zygomatic air cell defects.