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Where are the paranasal sinuses located in the skull?
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Respiratory system
Different methods of respiration in animals.
The paranasal sinuses are air-filled cavities located within four specific bones of the skull that adjoin the nasal cavity. They are categorized as follows:12
- Frontal sinuses: Situated in the frontal bone, these are located immediately above and between the eye sockets.1
- Maxillary sinuses: These are the largest of the air sinuses and are located within the maxilla (upper jaw) bone. Their roof is formed by the floor of the eye socket, while their floor is formed by the palate and teeth-bearing bone.12
- Ethmoidal sinuses: These consist of multiple thin-walled cavities located between the nasal cavities and the eye sockets.1
- Sphenoidal sinuses: These are situated in the sphenoid bone, located at the back of the nose in the upper posterior wall of the nasal cavity.12
These sinuses communicate with the nasal cavity through small openings called ostia, allowing for the drainage of mucus.1