A study on coronoid process of the dry adult human mandibles

Abstract

IntroductionThe coronoid process of mandible is of great clinical significance to maxillofacial surgeons for reconstructive purposes. Its variations can result in extremely narrow vestibular space, due to close proximity of the medial aspect of coronoid process to distal molar tooth. It is suitable for paranasal augmentation with the advantages of biocompatibility, availability and reduced operation time for harvesting. The knowledge of its variations is very helpful in anthropological and forensic practice. The present study was aimed to measure various dimensions of coronoid process and its variations in human mandible. MethodThe study was conducted on hundred dry human mandibles. Following parameters of coronoid process were studied: shape, width and height at its base and relation to the condylar process. ResultsTaking into consideration of both sides, the shape of coronoid process was hooked in 54.5%, triangular in 23.5% and rounded in 18.5% of the mandibles. Variant shapes were also observed like square (0.5%), hook & round (3%). The width of coronoid process on right side ranged from 13 to 28mm with a mean of 19.30±2.9mm and on left side ranged from 10 to 28mm with a mean of 19.1±3.08mm. The height of coronoid process on right side ranged from 11 to 27mm with a mean of 18.2±3.44mm and on left side ranged from 11 to 27mm with a mean of 18.0±3.36mm. Coronoid process was higher than condylar process bilaterally in 3 mandibles. ConclusionsThe morphologic and morphometric variations of coronoid process are clinically important for dental surgeons.