The impact of cement production on the maxillary sinus mucosa (CBCT study)

SUMMARY Objective. To assess the association between the degree of exposure to cement production and thickening of the maxillary sinus mucosa (MSM) on CBCT scans, taking into account age and sex, while excluding patients with obvious/acute odontogenic pathology and those who have undergone maxillary sinus surgery. Materials and methods. Retrospective observational study (Chechen Republic; 11.06.2025–25.09.2025). A total of 196 patients aged 21–65 years (M=125; F=71) were included, divided into 3 cohorts: cement plant workers (n=79), residents of the nearby settlement Chiri-Yurt (n=53), and residents of remote control areas (Shalinsky, Kurchaloyevsky, Gudermesky districts; n=64). CBCT: OP 3D DTX, FOV 9×11; two measurements of the maxillary sinus floor mucosal thickness (anterior/posterior sections), with the mean value used for analysis. Categories: ≤0.8; 0.9–2.0; 2.1–4.0; >4.1 mm. Overall sample: 13.3% (≤0.8), 52.6% (0.9–2.0), 31.1% (2.1–4.0), 3.1% (>4.1). Statistics: Pearson’s χ² (3×4): χ²=37.88; df=6; p=1.18e-06; Holm correction for pairs. Threshold ≥2.1 mm: workers 50.6% (95% CI 39.8–61.4), Chiri-Yurt 43.4% (95% CI 31.0–56.7), control 6.2% (95% CI 2.5–15.0); OR (vs control): workers 15.38 (5.10–46.41), Chiri-Yurt 11.50 (3.65–36.27). Exposure trend is significant (Z=5.46; p=4.63e-08). Conclusion. Exposure to cement production (working and living nearby) is associated with a significantly higher frequency of mucosal thickening of the maxillary sinus floor compared to distant areas.