The embryonic development of the ostiomeatal complex from 8 to 40 weeks

The embryonic development of the ostiomeatal complex from 8-40 weeks was studied under the light microscope. From our observation, the uncinate process was visible on the laterosuperior portion of the inferior turbinate at 8 week's gestation. By 12 weeks, the ethmoid bulla was first identifiable on the lateral wall of the middle meatus. The primordial ethmoidal infundibulum and primordial maxillary sinus were seen developing lateral to the uncinate process in the middle meatus. The air cells of the middle turbinate may be normal development of the ethmoidal labyrinth. Congenital nasal septum deviation may cause malformation of the ostiomeatal complex.